First and foremost, be aware of severe thunderstorm watches or warnings since tornadoes will often occur in those designated areas. Listen to your radio or television for more information.

What To Do When Threatening Weather Approaches

• Move to a designated shelter if you are in a home or building.
• If no underground shelter is available, move to a room that is on the lowest floor
  and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
• Avoid windows.
• If you are in an automobile, get out of it immediately.
• If you are outside or in a vehicle, find a nearby ditch and lie flat.
• If you live in a mobile home, leave as soon as possible since they offer no protection during a tornado.

~HOW TO SURVIVE THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING~

The Do's and Don'ts of Lightning Safety

DO: move to a sturdy building or car get away from any water DON'T seek shelter in a small shed, under a tree, or in a convertible car use the telephone or other electrical appliances except in an emergency

Lightning Myths and Facts

MYTH: If it is not raining, then there is no danger from lightning. FACT: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall. MYTH: The rubber soles of shoes or rubber tires on a car will protect you from being struck by lightning. FACT: Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside. MYTH: People struck by lightning carry an electrical charge and should not be touched. FACT: Lightning-strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately. Contact your local American Red Cross chapter for more information on CPR and first aid classes. MYTH: "Heat Lightning" occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat. FACT: What is referred to as "heat lightning" is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction!

How To Stay Safe Outdoors in a Thunderstorm
When looking for shelter, pick a low spot far from trees, poles, and fences.

• Take shelter under the shorter trees if caught in the woods.
• If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, minimize your contact with the ground
  by squatting low on the balls of your feet.
  Also, put your hands on your knees and place your head between them.