The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has informed the public that lightning is a natural phenomenon that often occurs during thunderstorms. Lightning can pose a serious danger to humans, not only from direct strikes but also from electric currents that can travel through tall trees, electric poles, or billboards that have been struck by lightning.

     It is important to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure safety during thunderstorms.

1. Seek shelter in a secure location when lightning strikes or the ominous rumble of thunder can be heard;
2. Avoid touching any kind of metal;
3. Turn off and unplug electrical appliances if they're not in use; 
4. Stay indoors and avoid going outside or standing next to a big tree, electric pole, or billboard;
5. Refrain from using communication tools or electronic devices.

Preparation and avoidance are crucial when it comes to thunderstorms, as they can result in properties and human life. According to the Meteorology Department, certain things are best avoided. These are the recommendations they provided.

• Stay indoors in a strong building when a thunderstorm appears, until the storm stops, which normally doesn't take long;
• Staying in the car will be safe but parked away from the flooding areas;
• Stay away from water bodies; get out of the boat, and move away from the beach during a thunderstorm. Take precautions to avoid the risks of flooding and lightning;
• In the case of forests,plains,or open air,kneel and lean forward. 
• Avoid touching any objects that can conduct electricity, such as metal wires, water pipes, fence lines, tractors, motorcycles, gardening equipment, railway tracks, and tall trees;  
• Do not use electrical devices such as televisions, etc., and temporarily refrain from using telephones, except in emergency situations;
• Do not wear metal jewelry, such as brass, copper, etc. in the outdoors, or hold metal objects such as umbrellas, during thunderstorms;

     Moreover, ensure that everything is kept in a sturdy and secure state, particularly objects that are prone to damage. It's imperative to take proper precautions to prevent any mishaps.

     In the event of an emergency, you can call the National Security Service hotline at 1784 or check the weather at the Meteorological Department hotline at 1182.

Sources: Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Ministry of Interior, 3/12 U Thong Nok Road, Dusit Subdistrict, Dusit District, Bangkok 10300. Tel. 0 2637 3000.

Meteorological Department, 4353 Sukhumvit Road, South Bangna Subdistrict, Bangna District, Bangkok 10260. Tel. 02 399 4012 / 3 / 4, 0 2399 4566.

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