Lightning safety

The commotion of a thunderstorm is attention grabbing, but be aware if you happen to be near one. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) 67 people are killed by lightning strikes every year, with many more lightning related injuries occurring.

Here are some tips when caught in severe thunderstorms:

If possible, avoid water, open spaces and all metal objects including electric wires or fences. Unsafe places include canopies, small picnic shelters, and tall trees.

When possible, find shelter in a substantial building or in a fully enclosed metal vehicle. If you are caught outside and lightning is striking nearby, do not gather in close proximity to other people.

On average Western New York has nearly 40 thunderstorms every year. For more lightning safety information, go to http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/.