City of Bonham
Emergency Management Office

AUSTIN – The Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Public Safety

urges Texans to take precautions during lightning storms because lightning is the second

most common cause of weather-related deaths in the state, after flooding. Here are some

important tips to protect yourself and your family.

Lightning tends to strike tall objects as well as metal objects, and can travel through

moist soils for dozens of feet. Move into a sturdy building and stay away from windows

and doors. For increased protection, avoid electric appliances or metal plumbing. Stay off

the telephone.

If you are outside, the interior of a car, truck or bus is relatively safe from lightning. To

be safe, do not touch metal on the inside of the vehicle. The outside bed of a truck is a

deadly location. Do not lean against a car or truck -- get inside the vehicle quickly.

If you are outdoors with no shelter available, stay low. Move away from hills and high

places, and avoid tall, isolated trees. Do not touch metal objects, such as tennis rackets,

baseball bats or golf clubs. Do not ride bicycles, or lean against fences or metal sheds.

If you feel your hair suddenly stand on end, it means you may be a lightning target.

Crouch low on the balls of your feet and try not to touch the ground with your knees or

hands. Avoid wet areas that can conduct the lightning charge.