Thunderstorm Information and Severe Weather Tips

Indoors:

Stay off the phone
Stay away from windows
Use flashlights if the power goes out
Discontinue use of phones and electrical equipment. You may also want to unplug appliances and computers.

Avoid taking a shower or bath. If lightning strikes your house it may send a current of electricity across metal plumbing throughout the house.

While driving:

Reduce your speed
Pull off to the shoulder of the road. Be sure you’re away from tall objects, such as trees, which could fall due to wind or lightning and do not clog highway underpasses.
Turn on your emergency flashers
Remain in the car until the storm passes
Do not touch any metal objects in the car
Avoid driving on roads covered by water

Outdoors:

Stay low
If possible, find shelter in a building
Keep away from trees, tall objects, metal objects and water
Boaters and swimmers should get to land as soon as possible
If you’re in a group caught outside, spread out. If you begin to feel you hair stand on end, this indicated lightning is about to strike. You should drop to your knees and bend forward placing your hands on your knees and crouch down. Do not lie flat on the ground; this will only make you a larger target.
When a watch is issued, you should do the following to protect your home.
Tie down loose outdoor objects or bring them inside
Bring vehicles under a covering or inside a garage
Close windows to prevent rain from entering your dwelling and draw the blinds so they can help deflect glass in the event the window breaks.
Keep an eye on the sky
Be prepared as if a warning was going to be issued.
Listen to radio or television for possible warnings.