Before lightning strikes learn the thunderstorm danger signs. Dark, towering, or threatening clouds. Distant lightning and thunder Have disaster supplies on hand: Flashlight with extra batteries Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries First aid kit and manual Emergency food and water Non electric can opener Essential medicines Cash and credit cards Sturdy shoes During the storm, if you are indoors: Secure outdoor objects such as lawn furniture that could blow away or cause damage or injury. Take light objects inside. Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors. Listen to a battery operated radio or television for the latest storm information. Do not handle any electrical equipment or telephones because lightning could follow the wire. Television sets are particularly dangerous at this time. Avoid bathtubs, water faucets, and sinks because metal pipes can transmit electricity. If you are outdoors: Attempt to get into a building or car. If no structure is available, get to an open space an squat low to the ground as quickly as possible. (If in the woods, find an area protected by low clump of trees--never stand underneath a single large tree in the open.) Be aware of the potential for flooding in low-lying areas. Crouch with hands on knees. Avoid tall structures such as towers, tall trees, fences, telephone lines, or power lines. Stay away from natural lightning rods such as golf clubs, tractors, fishing rods, bicycles, or camping equipment. Stay from rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water. If you are isolated in a level field or prairie and you feel your hair stand on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike), bend forward, putting your hands on your knees. A position with feet together and crouching while removing all metal objects is recommended. Do not lie flat on the ground.