Trees are swaying, the sky is getting dark and then all of a sudden you hear thunder.
That is where you should be aware of the potential dangers that are about to happen, as this is most likely happening within 10 miles of you. Don't ignore the sound because where thunder hits is where lightning is, and lightning can kill or strike you in ways you least expect it. That includes when you are in the shower, tub, or even washing dishes.
Lightning can travel all the way through plumbing, so it's best to avoid all water activities during a thunderstorm. Don't shower, bathe or wash your hands — says the CDC.
The risk of actual lightning traveling between plumbing might be less with plastic pipes than with metal. But it is best to avoid any contact with plumbing and running water during a lightning storm to reduce the risk of being struck.
Lightning can kill in many ways. A direct strike is almost fatal and injuries such as blunt trauma, skin lesions and burns, and muscle and eye injuries can occur when touching a car or metal object struck by lightning. The current can also travel through the ground, bounce off a person and stream up from objects near the ground.
Lastly, most lightning deaths and injuries happen when people are outside, especially during summer months. About 180 people per year are injured by lightning, and 10% of people are struck by lightning and die each year.
TIPS TO STAY SAFE
Stay off porches, and balconies, and don't go near windows and doors either.
Don't lie down on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls. Also, don't use anything that's connected to an electrical outlet such as computers or electronic equipment.
Stay off corded phones. Cell phones and cordless phones are safe ... that is if they are not connected to a charger.
Avoid anything that will increase your risk of being struck by lightning. If there are no safe shelters in sight, crouch down in a ball-like position and put your feet together, squat low, tuck your head, and cover your ears. Of course, this is the last resort, so seek shelter first.
