Show Low Fire Information Corner
By Captain Brent Mix SLFD/PIO
The monsoons are upon us here in the White Mountains, and here are a few safety tips to help you protect yourself and your family in the event of a storm:
Outdoors: Lightning is attracted to metal and water, and often strike the tallest objects.
YOU ARE IN A STRIKE ZONE IF YOU HEAR THUNDER FIVE SECONDS OR LESS AFTER YOU SEELIGHTNING!
- Stay away from wide, open areas such as fields and golf courses.
- Stay off hilltops and other high points of land.
- Don’t stand near trees or tall poles
- Get at least 7 feet away from tall objects
- Avoid metal objects such as golf carts and clubs, lawn mowers and pipes.
- Get to the lowest point of ground you can, and kneel or squat to minimize your contact points with the ground.
- Do not lie flat. This will make you a bigger target.
- Don’t huddle with others. Spread out at least 15 feet apart.
- Remove golf shoes or steel-toed boots.
- If you’re out on the water, get to land.
- If you’re in a pool, get out.
Downed Power Lines:
- Stay at least 100 feet away
- If the power line has fallen on your car while you’re in it, don’t touch anything metal in the car, and stay inside until professional help arrives.
- Never try to help someone trapped by a power line. You endanger your own safety. Instead, call 911 immediately.
Indoor Safety:
- Stay away from windows during strong winds. Tree limbs and other objects can be a hazard.
- Electrical wiring attracts lightning. Don’t use the telephone, except for emergencies.
- Lighting can move through a home’s plumbing, attracted to the metal or water. Don’t use using sinks and showers.
- Unplug computers, tv’s and other delicate electronic equipment. Consider attaching surge protectors to such equipment.
These are a few safety tips brought to you by the Phoenix Fire Department and the Show Low Fire Department. As always, we will be there when you need us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!