[panther]

facts about lightning!
did you know you are not supposed to lie down outside during a storm!!
or that rubber soles on ya shoe are a waste of time!

Before the thunderstorm

• Unplug all non-essential appliances, including the television, as lightning can cause power surges
• Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm
• During the thunderstorm73_73.gif
  You should use the '30-30 Rule' to determine if lightning threatens :
  Count the seconds between seeing the lightning, and hearing the thunder. If this time is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to be a threat. Seek shelter immediately.
  Lightning may be hidden by clouds, if you can hear thunder, lightning is likely to be a threat.
  • Avoid using the phone — telephone lines can conduct electricity
  • Avoid using taps and sinks — metal pipes can conduct electricity
  • If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects
  • Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake
  • If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them
  • Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground
  • If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately.

so now you know73_73.gif