FORT STEWART, Ga. - Living in coastal Georgia means Families get to enjoy the great outdoors. Have you and your Family been outdoors and all of a sudden thunderstorms approached your area? Here is a simple motto to always remember:
"When thunder roars, go indoors," explained Tony Fleeger, emergency and contingency planning officer. "There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area. If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm."
The electrical discharges caused by lighting does not discriminate and can strike anyone outdoors.
As recent as Sept. 5, Soldiers from 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Third Infantry were outside during a field training exercise when lightning struck. The best way to avoid the threat of being struck by lighting is to seek shelter indoors.
Fleeger encourages everyone to have a lightning safety plan and encourages everyone to cancel or postpone activities if thunderstorms are expected in the area.
"Monitor weather conditions and get to a safe place before the weather becomes threatening," lamented Fleeger. "Substantial buildings and hard-topped vehicles are safe options. Rain shelters, small sheds, and open vehicles are not safe."
Each year, an estimated 24,000 people are killed by lightning strikes around the world according to Wikipedia. Fleeger encourages following these simple lightning safety tips.
Plan in advance your evacuation and safety measures. "When you first see lighting or hear thunder, activate your emergency plan."
If you find yourself outdoors, avoid water, the high ground and open spaces. In addition, he recommends that you avoid metal objects including electrical wires, fences, machinery, motors and power tools.
He also recommends in an effort to keep safe, crouch down and place your hands over your ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder. Activities should be suspended for a minimum of 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder.
"Apply first aid procedures to a lightning victim if you are qualified to do so and call 911 or send for help immediately," Fleeger said.
These simple tips can keep you and your Family safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
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