American Church Group - Colorado

June 23-29 is Lightning Safety Awareness Week

Consider these statistics:

-About 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes occur in the United States each year.

-Over the last 30 years, the U.S. averages 47 lightning fatalities per year

-In 2016, there were 38 fatalities due to lightning in the United States.

Brotherhood Mutual offers a few safety measures that can all but eliminate the risk:

PLAN your evacuation and safety measures. When you first see lightning or hear thunder, immediately seek shelter. Suspend outdoor activities for at least 30 minutes following the last observed flash of lightning or clap of thunder.

AVOID water, high ground, open spaces, metal objects, open rain shelters, and trees. Where possible, find shelter in a substantial building or in a fully enclosed vehicle with the windows completely shut.

IF LIGHTNING STRIKES NEARBY, crouch down, put your feet together, and place your hands over your ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder. Avoid proximity (minimum of 15 feet) to other people.

IF LIGHTNING STRIKES A PERSON, CALL 911 or send for help immediately. Then, provide first aid. It’s safe to touch lightning victims—they don’t carry an electric charge.

For more information, refer to the National Lightning Safety Institute.