Lightning preparedness: When thunder roars, go indoors!

STATEWIDE — Lightning strikes the ground in Colorado more than a half million times each year and with many folks participating in outdoor summer activities, it is important to learn how to protect from lightning hazards.

It is important to remember that although most lightning occurs in the summer, people can be struck at any time of year. According to the National Weather Service, lightning kills an average of 47 people in the United States each year, and hundreds more are severely injured. In 2016 there were a total of 38 people killed from lightning strikes. A woman was killed from a lightning strike during May 2017 in Colorado while horseback riding.

Here are a couple important things to keep in mind before venturing outdoors:

Check the weather forecast before heading out. An informed decision will help avoid being in an area where lightning is expected to occur.

Stay tuned to a NOAA Weather Radio, check National Weather Service websites or access a favorite weather mobile applications on the cell phone for the most current forecast.

Once outside keep these tips in mind:

Know where the nearest safe location is located.

A safe location is any substantial building, such as a business, a home or a church.

Any enclosed hard-topped automobile also offers protection from lightning.

Immediately upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning stop and quickly get to a safe shelter. Do not wait until the rain starts to seek safe shelter.

Remember When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors. When there’s thunder or lightning it is important to act quickly. Those who are with a group of people should spread out.  This way if someone is struck by lightning the others can offer first aid. If a substantial building is not nearby an enclosed automobile offers excellent protection from lightning as well. Lastly, once inside a safe shelter during a storm, it is recommended to stay there for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.

See www.READYColorado.com