Outdoor storm safety tips
Categories: Eating & nutrition, Playground bureau
The last few days have been stormy ones here in Michigan and as it looks like it's going to be a wild weather week for many parts of the country. As it is the time of year when families spending a lot of time outdoors, here are some tips from the National Weather Service on what to do if you're outside when a storm hits:
- The safest place went outdoors during a thunderstorm is a large, enclosed building not a picnic shelter, shed, baseball dugout, or tent. The park restroom might not be pretty, but it might be your best option to stay safe from a lightning strike.
- If a building is not available, the next best choice is a hard topped vehicle, not a convertible or motorcycle.
- If you don't have a building or vehicle available, do NOT seek shelter under a tree. Lightning prefers tall objects.
- Avoid touching metal objects during a storm. This includes: baseball bats, fences, golf clubs, poles, backpacks, and bicycles.
- Wait until 30 minutes after you last heard the last roll of thunder before leaving your shelter.
Of course, the best way to ensure the safety of you and your family in the event of a storm is to pay attention to weather reports and avoid outdoor activity when severe weather is predicted. It's way more fun to watch a storm when huddled under a blanket on the couch with a bowl of popcorn then when outside in the midst of it!
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