Stay alert to changing weather conditions. It does not have to be raining for lightning to be a threat. Many people are struck before rain begins at their location.

Employ flash to bang. Sound travels one mile every 5 seconds. When you see the lighting count the seconds until you hear thunder. If 5 seconds elapse...the thunderstorms is one mile away. Ten seconds equals two miles. What is the safe distance from lightning. There is no absolute rule...but consider taking prompt...protective action if lightning is occurring within 3 miles of your location. Be aware that lightning can strike the ground 10 or more miles away from the thunderstorm.

Avoid being the tallest object...and stay away from other tall objects such as isolated trees.

Get off farm equipment...golf carts or other open vehicles. A hard top car with the windows shut is a relatively safe refuge.

If hiking in the mountains...go early in the day...before thunderstorms develop. If caught in the mountains during a lightning storm...seek shelter in a deep cave...or canyon...or below treeline in a large group of trees. Beware of flash flooding.

In a thunderstorm...get away from metal fences at ball fields. Drop metal objects such as golf clubs...and backpacks. Remember...metal is a very good electrical conductor.

Lightning may be ready to strike near you if you feel your hair stand on end or your skin tingle. Crouch down or drop to your knees...but do not lie flat on the ground.

The safest place in a lightning storm is inside a sturdy structure...your home...store...etc. Get inside the building...but do not stand by open windows...doors or patios during a thunderstorm.

Unplug unnecessary appliances and stay off the phone...and out of the shower during the storm.