• When you first see lightning or hear thunder, consider heading to a building or car. Lightning often precedes rain, so don't wait for the rain before finding shelter.

• If lightning is within six miles, seek shelter. Using the "flash to bang" counting system: count how many seconds are spaced between lightning flashes and thunder claps. Five seconds equals one mile.

Avoid water, high ground, open spaces and metal objects if you're outdoors. Try to find shelter as quickly as possible.

• Indoors, avoid water, doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Turn off, unplug and stay away from appliances, computers and TV sets.

• If lightning is striking nearby, you should keep a minimum distance of 15 feet between you and other people.

• Wait 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before returning to your activities.

Source: National Lightning Safety Institute, Louisville