Lightning safety is crucial for MacDill residents

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Each year, about 400 children and adults in the United States. are struck by lightning while working outside, at sports events, on the beach, mountain climbing, mowing the lawn or during other outdoor activities. About 67 people are killed and several hundred more are left to cope with permanent disabilities. Many of these tragedies can be avoided. Finishing the game, getting a tan, or completing a work shift isn't worth death or crippling injury.

The Single Most Dangerous Place
Outdoors is the most dangerous place to be during a lightning storm. When lightning is seen or thunder is heard, or when dark clouds are observed, quickly move indoors or into a hard-topped vehicle and remain there until well after the lightning storm ends. Listen to forecasts and warnings through NOAA Weather Radio or your local TV and radio stations. If lightning is forecast, plan an alternate activity or know where you can take cover quickly.
The United States lightning season is summer but lightning can strike year round. Outdoor jobs such as construction and agriculture, and outdoor chores such as lawn mowing or house painting are at their peak, putting those involved in danger. Follow these safety rules to ensure your safety when out doors.

Safety Rules
* Postpone activities promptly. Don't wait for rain. Many people take shelter from the rain, but most people struck by lightning are not in the rain! Go quickly inside a completely enclosed building, not a carport, open garage or covered patio.
* Be the lowest point. Lightning hits the tallest object. In the mountains if you are above tree line, you are the highest object around. Quickly get below tree line and get into a grove of small trees
* Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of lightning, or increasing wind, which may be signs of an approaching thunderstorm.
* Listen for the sound of thunder. If you can hear thunder, go to a safe shelter immediately.
* If you see or hear a thunderstorm coming or your hair stands on end, immediately suspend your game or practice and instruct everyone to go inside a sturdy building or car.
* Listen to NOAA Weather Radio.
* If you can't get to a shelter, stay away from trees.
* Avoid leaning against vehicles. Get off bicycles and motorcycles.
* Get out of the water. It's a great conductor of electricity.
* Avoid metal!
* Move away from a group of people.

Lightning Safety on the Water
Before going boating, fishing, diving or enjoying other water sports, check the forecast. If severe weather is predicted, stay home. If you must go out, take a radio and monitor forecasts. If you caught out in a storm, here's what do to:
* Get a lightning protection system for your boat or ship.
* Stay in the center of the cabin if the boat is so designed. If no enclosure is available, stay low.
* Keep arms and legs in the boat.
* Stop fishing, water skiing, swimming or other water activities when there is lightning or even when weather conditions look threatening.
* Disconnect and do not use or touch the major electronic equipment, including the radio, throughout the duration of the storm.

Struck by lightning?
* Call for help. Call 9-1-1 or your local ambulance service. Get medical attention as quickly as possible.
* Give first aid. If the victim has stopped breathing, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.
* Check for burns in two places. The injured person has received an electric shock and may be burned. People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge that can shock other people. You can examine them without risk.