Lightning Safety Awareness Week Begins Sunday

    Posted: 6/20/2025
    COLUMBUS – As warmer weather settles into Franklin County, so does the increased threat of severe thunderstorms. June 22–28, 2025 marks Ohio’s Lightning Safety Awareness Week, and Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) urges all residents to take this time to learn how to stay safe before, during, and after a storm.

    While lightning-related fatalities have decreased over the years, lightning still remains one of the top weather-related killers in the U.S. Many victims are struck before the storm fully arrives or after it seems to have passed—often while still outside. The key to staying safe? Preparedness.

    “There’s no safe place outdoors when thunderstorms are nearby. If you can hear thunder, you’re already close enough to be struck by lightning,” said Jeffrey J. Young, Director of Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security. “Unfortunately, people often wait too long to seek shelter, increasing their risk of serious injury or even death. The best way to stay safe is to plan ahead—have a lightning safety plan and adjust or postpone outdoor activities when storms are in the forecast.”
     
    Remember: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors! ⚡ Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) urges residents to take the following lightning safety precautions:
     
    🔹 PLAN AHEAD
    • Thunderstorms are most common in the spring and summer but can happen any time of year—even at night. Have a weather safety plan that includes a designated safe location.
    • Sign up for ALERT Franklin County at www.alertfranklincounty.org to receive automatic severe weather alerts.
    • Always check the forecast when planning outdoor activities and again before heading out.
    • Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) with tone alerts to stay informed of hazardous weather nearby.
    🔹 IF YOU’RE OUTDOORS
    • There is no safe place outside during a thunderstorm.
    • Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from rainfall.
    • When you hear thunder, see lightning, or notice dark skies, head immediately to a safe building or enclosed vehicle.
    • Stay sheltered for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
    • Never take shelter under trees—they can attract lightning and increase your risk.
    🔹 IF YOU’RE INDOORS
    • Stay indoors when thunderstorms are nearby.
    • Avoid corded phones—use cell or cordless phones instead.
    • Do not touch electrical equipment or plumbing, and stay away from windows, doors, porches, and concrete surfaces.
    • Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming activities.
    🔹 PROTECT YOUR PETS
    • Bring pets inside during thunderstorms—dog houses are not safe.
    • Animals chained to trees or wire runners are especially vulnerable to lightning strikes.
    🔹 IF SOMEONE IS STRUCK BY LIGHTNING
    • Call 911 immediately and get medical help.
    • Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge—it’s safe to assist them.
    • Begin CPR if needed and only if you are trained.
    • Consider taking a CPR or first aid class from your local American Red Cross or fire department.
    For additional information on lightning safety, visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning