IF YOU ARE CAUGHT

Sometimes, summer storms form quickly, catching people mid-climb.

"If you hear thunder, you should just start heading down because storms around here have the potential to blow in really fast," Moruzzi said. "Don't go up."

The safer option is to get below the ridgeline.

"If a storm is getting very violent above you, find a section of woods where trees are pretty even in height.

"It's important to stay calm, keep a level head about it and make the best decision with the resources that you have."

LIGHTNING SQUAT

If lightning starts to strike and there's nowhere to go, hikers should squat into what's called a lightning position, making a tripod with their body in an attempt to ground out any current carried through the ground or trees.

"We consider it a last option, but you can get into the lightning position," Moruzzi said, "where you squat -- not sit -- in a tripod position. Touch your heels together, resting your elbows on your knees.

"Your bone structure forms a kind of cage, so if lightning hits near you, you've made a pathway away from your vital organs. That's the hope anyway."

Hands placed over the ears can protect against acoustic shock from deafening thunder.

People hiking in groups should separate to at least 20 feet apart.

Remain aware of potential strikes for another 30 minutes after the last flash, Moruzzi said.

HIT THE PUDDLES

The safest plan, however, is to avoid the heights if the weather looks bad.