Florida summers bring dangerous lightning

The beginning of Summer also means its the peak season for lightning storms, and in Florida that can be dangerous. During the past 30 years, lightning killed an average of 67 people per year in the United States - more than the annual average of fatalities caused by tornadoes or hurricanes. The Sunshine state leads the nation in the number of lightning strikes with a daily average of 3500, it also ranks first in the nation in lightning related deaths. Since 1959, there have only been two reported deaths caused by lightning in Franklin County, while areas in southern and central Florida have reported as many as 30. Even Neighboring Gulf County has seven deaths attributed to lightning strikes over the past 45 years. If a severe thunderstorm approaches, your best defense is a sturdy house or car. Get out of boats and stay away from the water. Avoid using electrical appliances, even your phone, and don't take a bath or shower while lightning is still in the area. If you're outdoors, find a low spot away from trees fences and poles. If you're in the woods take shelter under shorter trees. It also helps to own a NOAA weather radio so you know when lightning storms are approaching. Weather Radios are available at most hardware and electronics stores.