The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is indoors, ideally in a sturdy, enclosed building. Here are some specific safety guidelines for staying safe during a thunderstorm:
1. **Seek Shelter**: If you are outdoors and a thunderstorm is approaching, seek shelter immediately. Avoid seeking shelter under trees, as they can attract lightning.
2. **Indoor Shelter**: Stay inside a well-constructed building, such as a house or office. It should have a roof, walls, wiring, and plumbing to help conduct lightning safely into the ground.
3. **Avoid Electrical Appliances**: During a thunderstorm, avoid using electrical appliances and stay away from plumbing, as lightning can travel through water pipes.
4. **Stay Away from Windows**: Stay away from windows to avoid the risk of shattered glass in case of strong winds, hail, or lightning strikes.
5. **Avoid Water**: Avoid activities that involve water, like taking a shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry, as lightning can travel through plumbing.
6. **Wait It Out**: Once inside, wait for the storm to pass. Thunderstorms typically don't last very long, so it's usually best to stay indoors until the storm is over.
7. **Stay Off Corded Phones**: Corded phones can conduct electrical current in case of a lightning strike. Use a mobile phone or a cordless phone instead.
8. **Don't Go on the Roof**: Avoid going on the roof or using metal ladders during a thunderstorm, as they can attract lightning.
9. **If Caught Outdoors**: If you're caught outdoors and can't find shelter, avoid open fields, tall objects, and bodies of water. Crouch down in a low-lying area, but be aware of potential flooding.
10. **In a Vehicle**: If you're in a car, stay inside with the windows rolled up. A hard-topped vehicle provides some protection from lightning.
Remember that thunderstorms can be unpredictable, and it's essential to prioritize safety. Lightning is a significant threat during thunderstorms, and taking precautions by seeking indoor shelter is the best way to stay safe.