Florida is the lightning capitol of the nation with an average of ten deaths and 30 injuries a year. But what do you do if you are out on a boat when a thunderstorm approaches?
The safest thing to do is return to land if close to shore and find a building to go inside. If that is not an option, there are a few actions you can take.
If the boat has an enclosed cabin, immediately go down into shelter. When the boat does not have a cabin, crouch as low as possible in the center of the boat.
Always remember not to use electronic equipment and stay away from tall objects. Most importantly, make sure your boat is properly grounded.
"If you get caught in a heavy duty thunderstorm, you need to be sure you've got on rubber soled shoes. Try to stay as dry as possible. Stay within the cabin or within the wheel house area. Don't be on the outside of the deck and stay away from all the metal," says charter owner Bob Zales II.
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