Hazard information

Lightning kills about nine Canadians each year and seriously injures more than 100 people.

Safety tips

  • be aware of weather conditions and warnings
  • seek shelter immediately if a warning has been issued or you believe one could occur

If you are indoors:

  • Stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors — strong winds and large hailstones can shatter them.
  • Avoid running water in your house — lightning can enter through pipes and plumbing.
  • Don't take showers or baths during a thunderstorm.
  • Remain indoors during a thunderstorm and stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.
  • Be prepared to seek shelter in a basement or interior room on the lowest level if conditions worsen.

If you are outdoors:

  • If you hear thunder, then lightning is close enough to be dangerous — take shelter in an enclosed building or metal-topped vehicle.
  • Avoid water, high ground, isolated trees, power lines and picnic shelters — small, open structures don't protect you from lightning.
  • If there’s no shelter, go to a low-lying area away from tall, isolated objects — crouch down and put your feet together — do not lie down.

If power outage results:

Prepare now

Take the following steps so you and your family are prepared in the event of an emergency:

  • Have a safe room in your home where everyone gathers during a storm — away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
  • If there’s a tornado, gather in a basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor.
  • Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Bring inside or tie-down garbage cans and lawn furniture.
  • Use surge protectors — a safety electrical plug that will shut off the power if lightning strikes to prevent damage to your computer and other household items.