Try to be off the mountain during peak lightning periods. In the Rocky Mountain most lightning strikes tend to occur from 11 AM to 9 PM and from April to September. If unable to be off the mountain, plan activities so that not in a vulnerable position during that interval.
Things to avoid:
(1) being the highest object around in open terrain
(2) being in contact with metal (bicycle, tent pole, fence, tower, other)
(3) taking refuge underneath an isolated tree
(4) being near a body of water (pond, lake, river)
(5) leaving a refuge as soon as the lightning or storm has passed
Things to do:
(1) descend below the timberline so in a forest
(2) take refuge in a closed metal car or vehicle, or in a safe building
(3) seek refuge at the first sign of a storm and stay there for 30 minutes after all signs have stopped
(4) use non-metal items (tent poles, hiking sticks, carbon fiber bicycle, other) if available
Even when taking precautions a person exposed on a mountain may be struck by lightning, but the risk can be significantly reduced.
