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KALISPELL FIRE DEPARTMENT Dave Dedman – Fire Chief Jon Campbell – Assistant Fire Chief Cec Lee – Executive Secretary PO Box 1997 312 First Avenue East Kalispell, Montana 59901 Phone: (406) 758-7760 FAX: (406) 758-7777 “Protecting our community with the highest level of professionalism.” THUNDERSTORM SAFETY Thunder and lightning storms happen all the time. But did you know that lightning strikes and lightning fires occur most often in the summer? Know what to do to keep you and your family safe when it does strike! • If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of lightning. Look for shelter inside a home, large building, or a hard-topped vehicle right away. Do not go under tall trees for shelter. There is no place outside that is safe during a thunderstorm. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before leaving your shelter. • Stay away from windows and doors. • If you are in or on open water, go to land and seek shelter immediately. • If you feel your hair stand on end, that means lightning is about to strike, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Do not lie flat on the ground. This is a last resort when a building or hard-topped vehicle is not available. • If a person is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 and get medical care immediately. Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge; attend to them immediately. Check their breathing, heartbeat, and pulse. CPR may be needed.