Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Keep these lightning safety tips in mind;

Plan ahead and avoid dangerous lightning situations. Check the latest forecast before going outdoors for extended periods. Watch for storms and seek shelter indoors when storms approach.

Lightning often strikes the tallest object. If caught outdoors during a storm, don’t stand next to tall trees or power poles. And don’t be out in an open area where you may be the tallest object. A closed, hard top metal vehicle is safe in a thunderstorm. An open structure such as a picnic shelter will keep you dry but it will not protect you from lightning.

If boating or swimming, get out of the water when storms approach and seek shelter indoors.

Avoid using electrical appliances, corded telephones and metal plumbing when indoors during a thunderstorm. It is okay to use a cell phone or cordless phone.

The best way to stay safe from lightning is to go indoors as soon as there is a threat. “When thunder roars, go indoors!”

Look for more information during national lightning safety awareness week June 20 through June 26 or visit www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.