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Eyes To The Sky On Lightning Safety Awareness Day

Pixabay.com Milesl

Wisconsin’s Lightning Safety Awareness Day is today.

State and local officials are encouraging everyone to learn more about the dangers of lightning and what steps they should take to remain safe.

Dawn Robinson of Oneida County Emergency Management has something to remember..

"...Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors..."

Robinson says when thunder is heard or lightning is seen, indoors is the best place to be.

According to the National Lightning Safety Council, 396 people were struck and killed by lightning in the U.S. between 2006 and 2018. Of those fatalities, nine were in Wisconsin. Almost two-thirds of those killed nationwide were involved in outdoor leisure activities at the time they were struck.

Robinson says you can get struck even when you think it's safe..

"..Try and avoid being in open spaces outdoors. Even a car with a hardtop is safer than being in the open area. Try to seek the sturdiest shelter. Never seek shelter under a tree or think you are safe being low to the ground..."

Even if the skies are clear directly overhead, a bolt of lightning can travel several miles from the center of a storm. If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. Health officials say if a person you are with is struck by lightning, immediately dial 911 and start performing CPR. Don’t be afraid to touch the victim - the human body does not hold an electrical charge.

More information is available at readywisconsin.wi.org

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