The Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) has declared June Lightning Awareness Month. The institute’s main objective is to educate people about lightning and its dangers. Lightning education keeps homes, and families safe. NWE wants to help LPI’s efforts by informing customers how to remain safe during electrical storms.

In a bolt of lightning, there are between 35,000 to 40,000 amperes of current, which is enough energy to light 70,000 60-watt light bulbs. Lightning falls somewhere on the earth every second, so it’s not surprising that each year lightning causes billions of dollars in property damage. Fire and lightning are the number one claim on homeowner’s insurance. Twenty-one cents of every dollar goes to pay for these claims.

Lightning sometimes hits powerlines, which causes a huge surge of electricity to flow down the electric line. Proper use of fusing, circuit breakers, and lightning arrestors create a "shield" around electric lines and minimize the damaging effects of lightning strikes. During a lightning storm, customers may notice that their power blinks off and on suddenly. This is NWE’s protective equipment striving to protect customers’ facilities as well as its own equipment.

When Lightning Strikes:

Seek a safe shelter immediately! NWE suggests following these safety guidelines:

Indoors

§ Unplug appliances before a storm nears - never during.

§ Avoid contact with piping including sinks, baths and faucets.

§ Do not use the telephone except for emergencies.

If you’re caught outside and unprotected:

§ Get in a hard-topped car.

§ Never use a tree as a shelter and avoid areas that are higher than the surrounding landscape.

§ Keep away from metal objects including bikes, golf carts, fencing, etc.

§ Immediately get out and away from pools, lakes, and other bodies of water.

§ Spread out - don’t stand in a crowd of people.

§ If you feel a tingling sensation or your hair stands on end, lightning may be about to strike! Immediately crouch down and cover your ears. Do not lie down or place your hands on the ground.

In the United States, Lightning kills nearly 100 people every year and injures hundreds of others. Knowing what steps to take in the event of an oncoming storm can save a life. Lightning travels in a path of least resistance so if properly protected - homes, appliances, and people, can be safe. This summer, be smart, be safe and remember, lightning kills!