Learning about Lightning: Stay Safe and Stay Alert

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The odds of getting struck by lightning may be low, but the danger is still very real and very avoidable. That’s why the National Trail Fire Department of Gratiot, Ohio, teamed up with the Muskingum County EMA and the National Weather Service to teach lightning safety at West Muskingum High School.

“It feels really good to get partnered up with these guys and get the awareness out there. You know, obviously I’ve been out to fatals with lightning in the last 28 years. It’s the real deal and people just don’t understand how important it is to get this knowledge that we’re going to pass along to them,” said Tom Roberts, chief of the National Trail Fire Department.

Wednesday’s lightning safety lessons dispelled misconceptions about lightning and emphasized the value of having a plan and being aware of local weather forecasts. Muskingum County EMA Director Jeff Jadwin highlights a safety tip he would like people to know.

“Well, I think what people need to understand is you don’t go outside and film the lightning as it’s striking around you. You don’t film the tornadoes. You go into a structure that’s steady and sturdy. Go to your basement, if possible. This last two weeks ago I had a lot of people send me footage of tornadoes, which I shared with the National Weather Service,” Jadwin said.

You can learn how to stay safe from lightning and other weather-related hazards by visiting the National Weather Service’s website.