continued:

If Caught Outside...

• If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees.
• If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately!
• Go to a low-lying, open place, like a ravine, gully, or valley; away from trees, poles, or metal objects.
• Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• Squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible.
• Do not lie flat on the ground -- this will make you a larger target!
• Do not stand under a tree or telephone pole.
• On a golf course, remove metal spiked shoes, put down clubs, and avoid electric carts.
• Stay away from metal fences, clotheslines, metal pipes, and metal rails.
• Stay away from rivers, lakes or other bodies of water.

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!

After the Storm Passes...

• Stay away from storm-damaged areas.  Do not approach any wires that are down, as they may be high voltage electric lines.  These lines may be hidden from view by downed trees, tree limbs or other debris. 
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

If Someone is Struck by Lightning...

• People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
• Call for help. Get someone to dial 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) number.
• The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both where they were struck and where the electricity left their body. Check for burns in both places.
• Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.