With thunderstorms still possible in the Southland, and in the aftermath of a fatal lightning strike at Venice Beach on Sunday, county officials have issued a series of storm safety tips.
The county Office of Emergency Management noted that when a thunderstorm is occurring, nowhere outdoors is safe from possible lightning strikes, so people should seek shelter.
OEM officials recommended:
— Seek shelter indoors when a storm occurs, remembering that small outdoor buildings such as dugouts, rain shelters and sheds are not safe. People should move to a substantial building with wiring and plumbing.
— If thunder is audible, there is danger of a lightning strike.
— Once inside, stay away from windows, doors and anything that conducts electricity, such as corded telephones, computers and other electronic equipment.
— Electrical charges in clouds can linger following a storm, so people should wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
— People should also avoid plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, baths and faucets.
— If stuck outside, avoid elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks.
— Don’t use trees, cliffs or overhangs as shelter.
— Stay away from ponds, lakes or other bodies of water.
— Avoid any objects that conduct electricity, such as power lines and wire fences.
Additional tips are available from the National Weather Service online at www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.
