The safest location during a thunderstorm is inside a large enclosed structure with plumbing and electrical wiring. These include shopping centers, schools, office buildings, and private residences. If lightning strikes the building, the plumbing and wiring will conduct the electricity and eventually direct it into the ground. If no substantial buildings are available, an enclosed metal vehicle such as an automobile, van, or school bus would be a suitable alternative.

Not all types of buildings or vehicles are safe during thunderstorms. Buildings with expose sides are NOT safe (even if they are "grounded"). These include beach shacks, metal sheds, picnic shelters/pavilions, carports, and baseball dugouts. 

Porch steps are dangerous as well.

Convertible vehicles offer no safety from lightning, even if the top is up. Other vehicles with open cabs, such as golf carts, tractors, and construction equipment, are unsafe during thunderstorms.

• Don't use corded phones: Using a corded phone during a thunderstorm is one of the leading causes of indoor lightning injuries. However, it is safe to use cordless or cell phones if they are not connected to an electrical outlet.

• Stay away from windows and doors: Sitting on an open porch to watch a thunderstorm is also dangerous. It is best to be in an interior room during a thunderstorm.

• Don't touch electrical equipment or cords: Any device that uses electricity (e.g., computers, televisions, household appliances, etc.) is susceptible to a lightning strike. Consider unplugging certain appliances or electronics, but do this before the storm arrives for your safety.

• Refrain from touching concrete surfaces: Lightning can travel through the metal wires or bars in concrete walls and flooring, such as in the basement or garage.

• If inside a vehicle: Roll the windows up and avoid contact with any conducting paths leading to the outside of the vehicle (e.g., metal surfaces, ignition, portable electronic devices plugged in for charging, etc.).