DURING A SEVERE LIGHTNING STORM

IF YOU ARE OUTSIDE:

• Seek shelter in a building, cave or depressed area. Remember that although lightning may appear to be far, it can travel a great distance in seconds.
• Keep away from telephone and power lines, fences, trees and hilltops.
• Do not ride bicycles, motorcycles, golf carts, and tractors.
• Do not use metal shovels, power tools, or golf clubs as they conduct electricity.
• If swimming or boating, get back to shore and out of the water.
• If you’re caught in the open, crouch down with your feet close together and your head down (the “leap-frog” position) - Don’t lie flat – by minimizing your contact with the ground, you reduce the risk of being electrocuted by a ground charge.

IF YOU ARE IN A CLOSED AUTOMOBILE:

• Stop the Car and stay in it.
• Don’t stop near trees or power lines that could fall on you.

IF YOU ARE IN A BUILDING:

• Stay inside. Close windows and doors.
• Stay away from windows, doors, fireplaces, radiators, stoves, metal pipes, sinks, bathtubs, telephones or other materials which conduct electricity.
• Unplug radios and televisions. (Use a battery operated radio for obtaining Emergency information)
• Have Emergency lighting prepared in case you lose electricity. Flashlights or a rechargeable battery operated lanterns are very useful and are safer than candles.

For additional Information Contact Office of Critical Infrastructure Protection and Emergency Preparedness at: www.ocipep.gc.ca