What to Do During a Thunderstorm

If you are in a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. In an open area, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods. On open water, get to land and find shelter immediately. Anywhere you feel your hair stand on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike), squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. DO NOT lie flat on the ground.

What to Do After a Thunderstorm

Call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible.The following are things you should check when you attempt to give aid to a victim of lightning:

• Breathing – if breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Heartbeat – if the heart has stopped, administer CPR.
• Pulse – if the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible injuries. Check for burns where the lightning entered and left the body. Also be alert for nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing and eyesight.

All information above is from the FEMA website.