A day at the beach can quickly turn disastrous if severe weather strikes. Stay safe by following these tips.

• If you can hear thunder, go to a safe shelter immediately — even if the sky looks blue and clear. Lightning can travel sideways for up to 10 miles.
• If you see lightning or hear thunder, don't wait for rain. Go quickly inside a completely enclosed building. If you can't reach a building, get inside a hard-topped all-metal vehicle.
• Remember the 30-30 rule of lightning safety. The first "30" is for 30 seconds: if the time between the flash of lightning and rumble of thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to hit you. The second "30" stands for 30 minutes: after the last flash of lightning, wait 30 minutes before leaving shelter.
• Be the lowest point. Lightning hits the tallest object. Crouch down if you are in an exposed area. Do not lie flat on the ground.
• Stay away from trees. If you are caught in the open, stay twice as far away from a tree as it is tall.
• Do not lean against vehicles. Get off bicycles and motorcycles.
• Get out of the water: off the beach and out of small boats or canoes. Avoid standing in puddles of water, even if wearing shoes.
• Avoid metal! Drop backpacks with metal frames, and stay away from fences and exposed sheds. Don't touch metal items such golf clubs, fishing rods, tennis rackets or tools. Large metal objects can conduct lightning. Small metal objects can cause burns.
• Stay several yards away from other people. Don't share a bleacher bench or huddle in a group.