What to do Before, During & After Thunderstorms

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Stormy weather in Geauga County

All storms are dangerous and thunderstorms are no exception. In the Geauga County area we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and thunderstorms in April and May. Below are great tips to help prepare you for what to do before, during and after a thunderstorm.

To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:

• To begin preparing, you should an emergency kit and make a family communication plan. 
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

What to do during a thunderstorm:

• If thunderstorm and lightning are occurring in your area, you should:
• Use a battery-operated weather radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches, patios and decks.
• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
• Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

What to do after a thunderstorm:

• If lightning strikes you or someone you know, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible.
• Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around or wait till water subsides.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 440-564-7266 or visit http://www.SERVPROgeaugacounty.com