Ill. officials urge people to take cover in storms

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - An Illinois construction worker who was struck by lightning last year has joined a statewide lightning safety awareness program.

Jim Ciulla of Lexington was working as a flagger with a road crew when he was struck on July 6. He was treated for first- and second-degree burns and has lasting physical problems, including numbness in his feet and scarring.

Ciulla and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency are encouraging people to take cover during severe storms.

The program's slogan is "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors."

Ciulla says nothing — including an outdoor job or sporting event — is worth the risk of getting struck by lightning.

Lightning Safety Awareness Week in Illinois runs through Saturday.