According to the National Weather Service, there were 67 deaths in America last year caused by lightning strikes.  Although the odds of you being struck are about 1 in 240,000, it is important to be aware of the proper safety precautions necessary to stay safe in a lightning storm. 

First and foremost, if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance.  If you find yourself outside during a storm, find shelter immediately.  Your safest choice is a building with both electricity and plumbing - these amenities will draw lightning toward the ground.    A truck or car is the second safest choice if you are caught in a thunderstorm.  Close all windows to your vehicle. 

Remember, lightning is attracted to the tallest object in its path.  If you are on a lake or in an open area, find shelter quickly.  If you cannot find shelter, go to the lowest lying area - preferably one that does not have tall, isolated trees.  Do not seek protection under a tree.  If you are with others, spread out at least 30 feet from each other.  This will lower the chances of multiple strikes.

Never lie on the ground during a lightning storm.  The proper position is in a crouch, keeping your feet as close together as possible, leaving only the soles of your feet on the ground.  Tuck down your head and hold your ears.  Do not keep your body up by holding on to the ground or other objects.  If you cannot hold this position, try to find a low rock to place your bottom on to help you keep this position.

You must avoid anything metal.  This includes metal rods in canopies - so avoid taking shelter in tents with metal rods, canopies, dining flies or small picnic shelters.

Your mother was right - do not go near a window or door during a thunderstorm.  Do not use the phone or be near water as well.  If a thunderstorm approaches your house, be sure all children and adults are out of baths, showers and are not washing dishes.  Unplug all appliances.  If you have a computer with a modem, unplug the phone line from the computer to the jack, as lightning will travel through the wire and burn your motherboard.

If you witness a person being struck by lightning, call 911 immediately.   Death from lightning strikes result from cardiac arrest or the inability to breath.  After calling 911, begin CPR or mouth-to-mouth-resuscitation.

Remember, although the storm may have seemed to pass, do not go outside until you have not heard thunder for thirty minutes.