The safest location during a thunderstorm is inside a large enclosed structure with plumbing and electrical wiring. These include shopping centers, schools, office buildings, and private residences.

The safest place to be during a lightning storm is inside a fully enclosed, substantial building with integrated wiring and plumbing, such as a house, office, or shopping mall. These structures provide protection because the lightning will typically travel through the electrical or plumbing lines into the ground rather than through the occupants. If a building is unavailable, a hard-topped metal vehicle with the windows rolled up is the next best option; the metal frame acts as a Faraday cage, conducting the electricity around the outside of the car to the ground. You should strictly avoid open structures like gazebos, porches, or bus stops, and stay away from tall, isolated objects like trees. If caught in the open with no shelter, the official advice is to "squat low" with your feet together and head tucked to minimize contact with the ground—never lie flat, as ground current is a major cause of injury. Indoors, stay away from corded phones, electrical outlets, and water (like showers or sinks) until the storm has passed for at least 30 minutes.