OUT & ABOUT

OUTFIELD

When lightning strikes

There’s no safe place to be outside during a lightning storm, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, although a car with a metal roof is a top choice. (No, it’s not the rubber tires that provide the safety.)

Campers who hear thunder should mind these tips from the NOAA experts:

Do not seek shelter under tall isolated trees or under partially enclosed buildings

Stay away from tall, isolated objects, and don’t let the tallest object in a field be you.

Do not camp on an open ridge during periods of thunderstorm activity. If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees. If you are camping in an open area, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low area.

Avoid excellent electrical conductors, such as wet climbing ropes and metal objects such as fences, poles and frame packs.

If lightning is in the immediate area, and there is no safe inside refuge, stay at least 15 feet apart from other members of your group so lightning won’t travel between you if hit. Keep feet together and squat on the ground off ridges away from big trees.

OUTPLAN

Forest extends deadline

The Idaho Panhandle National Forest has extended the deadline to Sept. 9 for commenting on proposed revisions to the overall management plan, which includes changes in motorized trail use and deletes some areas for wilderness consideration.

Check it out: www.fs.fed.us/kipz.

OUTDO

Hunting for ladies

What: 13th annual Women in Hunting Clinic

Who: For up to 40 women, classes taught by other women experienced in the outdoors.

When: Aug. 19, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Coeur d’Alene Rifle and Pistol Club

Details: Expert instruction provided by local women hunter and bow hunter education instructors. Topics will include firearm safety, rifle shooting, map and compass, archery, hunt preparation and field dressing a big game animal. Cost: $5, includes coffee, snacks, soda and a wild game barbecue lunch.

Pre-register: Idaho Fish and Game, (208) 769-1414.

OUTLOOK

Best fishing times

Lunar tables from the U.S. Naval Observatory list peak fishing times. Be fishing at least one hour before and one hour after given times. Applies to all time zones.

(* indicates best days.)

Through Aug. 13

Today

11:05 p.m. 11:35 a.m.

* Monday

— Noon

* Tuesday

12:05 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday

1:05 a.m. —

Thursday

2 a.m. 2:25 p.m.

Friday

2:55 a.m. 3:30 p.m.

Saturday

3:45 a.m. 4:10 p.m.

Next Sunday

4:35 a.m. 5 p.m.