This is Lightning Safety Awareness Week, and an awareness campaign to learn about the lightning hazards of summer and the preparedness actions you should take when storms threaten, is being highlighted.  Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.  “Heat lightning” is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away from thunder to be heard.  However, the storm may be moving in your direction.  Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening.  Your chances of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in 600,000 but could be reduced even further by following safety precautions.  Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.  If thunderstorm and lightning are occurring in your area, you should: Avoid contact with corded phones and devices including those plugged into electric for recharging.  Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.  Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.  Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.  Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.  For even more readiness information visit ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning.