Utah
Campers Killed by Lightning Lightning
strike kills parents and injures three small children at mountain campground
Salt
Lake City, Utah--The parents of three small children were struck by lightning
and killed as the family sought protection from a thunderstorm under some trees
near the shore of Crystal Lake, in the Uinta mountain rage, about 60 miles from
Salt Lake City.
According to reports, Richard and Lisa Goff were sitting
in metal chairs when the lightning bolt hit, during a thunderstorm that produced
hail, heavy rain and frequent lightning. The parents were killed instantly, before
the eyes of their three small children.
The children, a boy, 9 and two
girls, ages 5 and 18 months were airlifted to Salt Lake City hospitals, where
they were reported to be in good condition and nearing recovery from their injuries.
Friends of the Goff's said that the family enjoyed outdoor activities such
as camping, fishing, boating, water skiing and hiking.
Outdoors is the
most dangerous place to be during a thunderstorm. When lightning is seen or thunder
is heard, or when dark clouds are observed, quickly move indoors or into a hard-topped
vehicle and remain there until well after the lightning storm ends. Each year,
approximately 400 people in the U.S. are struck by lightning while outside.
Use the 30-30 rule where visibility is good and there is nothing obstructing
your view of the thunderstorm. When you see lightning, count the time until you
hear thunder. If that time is 30 seconds or less, the thunderstorm is within 6
miles of you and is dangerous. Seek shelter immediately. The threat of lightning
continues for a much longer period than most people realize. Wait at least 30
minutes after the last lightning flash before leaving shelter.
If you're
caught outside and unprotected, following a few simple guidelines listed below
may save your life.
Get in a hard topped car
Never use a tree
as a shelter
Avoid areas that are higher than the surrounding landscape
Keep away from metal objects including bikes, golf carts, fencing, machinery,
etc.
Avoid standing near tall objects
Immediately get out and
away from pools, lakes, and other bodies of water
Spread out - don't
stand in a crowd of people
If you feel a tingling sensation or your hair
stands on end, lightning may be about to strike! Immediately crouch down and cover
your ears. Do not lie down or place your hands on the ground.
