Things You Should Not Do In Lightning

I've been putting off vacuuming our pool for a few days, but it really needed it. So, this afternoon I decided to just get it done. Of course, as soon as I went outside, I started to hear some rumblings in the sky. I figured, I better hurry before it started to pour, because I didn't want to get wet...wait a minute, I was going in the pool.

When I vacuum, I use this long metal pole, that with an extension is probably over 10 feet high. So, I'm in the middle of the pool and hear more thunder. I think, "You know, if anybody else in my family was doing this, I would make them immediately get out of the pool." Why do I care less about my own safety?

I finished, and luckily did not see any lightning. Long metal pole, water, possibility of lightning...what was I thinking? The words stubborn and idiot come to mind.

I think I better keep in mind some of these safety tips from weather.com:

• Avoid contact with corded phones.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. If you plan to unplug any electronic equipment, do so well before the storm arrives.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.

Also, these are the top 8 things you should avoid doing in lightning!

8. Take a Shower
7. Play Video Games
6. Have the Computer on
5. Run around outside
4. Standing on the Beach
3. Talking on the Phone
2. Sailing
1. Swim

Hmmmm, vacuuming a swimming pool with a long metal rod standing in the middle of the pool isn't on the list?

By the way, I put a shirt on before the picture above was taken because all this scary talk is traumatic enough!