How Lightning Strikes Can Damage Your Home

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Swannanoa,NC home

When storm season begins in Swannanoa,NC, you may hear a lot of advice about how important it is to go inside whenever a storm that could produce lightning is in your area. While that is good advice, there are also precautions to take once you're inside. The electrical charges slicing through the air can distress your home, even causing a lightning fire. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself and your property.

Pathways to the Ground

Once your house is struck, the electrical surge is going to look for a way to the ground. It may take many pathways. Wiring and pipes are the most likely conductors, but metal window frames may also provide a conduit. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid certain activities during a storm:

• Taking a shower or bath
• Using corded electronic equipment, such as a computer or video games
• Washing hands
• Doing dishes
• Sitting by windows or doors

Electrical Power Surges

It is a good idea to unplug your electronic equipment altogether if you know that a storm is on its way. Even if it doesn't cause a lightning fire, such a powerful strike to your house can fry any equipment that is along a branch of its pathway. While some restoration experts may be able to salvage some data, you can save yourself a lot of frustration and money by separating equipment from the power source.

Fire Breakout Destruction

One of the most devastating effects of electrical storms could be a house fire. If a fire breaks out after a strike, you cannot assume that the rain in the storm will be sufficient to put the fire out. Call the fire department immediately. That is your best chance at saving your home.

From power surges to a lightning fire, if your house is struck by lightning during a storm, it could sustain some damage. Take precautions to protect yourself, but have emergency personnel on speed dial just in case.