Things To Consider To Protect Your Home From Lightning

Did you know that lightning kills more people than tornados and hurricanes each year. An average of 76 people die each year as lightning strikes about 270,000 times. A typical home insurance policy protects our homes from lightning damage. when you purchase comprehensive insurance with your auto policy, any damage to your vehicle is covered as well. Your health insurance will cover medical expenses in the event you or a family member were to be struck by lightning.

Lightening-related insurance claims filed by policyholders have dropped almost 11.5% since 2004. The average cost per claim however, has risen almost 70% over the past five years. Experts on insurance-related matters, blame increased claims cost on two things: Severe storms and a large increase in consumer electronics in homes.

The average household has an abundance of high dollar electronics which has a significant impact on insurance claims losses. While we enjoy having sound systems, computers, and high definition televisions , these expensive electronics have contributed greatly to the cost of the average lightning related claim.

While we can't control the weather, we can take steps to protect ourselves, our families and our homes from the effects of lightning. Don't underestimate the power of lightning. Instead, do your part to lower insurance rates-and keep loved ones, your home and possessions safe.

Safety Tips For You And Your Family

Sinks, baths, and water faucets, should be avoided.

Avoid windows, doors, and electrical appliances.

Use a cell phone and not a land line

When storms are approaching, find an area of lower elevation .

Stay away from solitary trees, open areas, hilltops, metal objects and bodies of water.

Look for shelter in a nearby home or car.

A properly installed lightning protection system is approximately 99% effective in preventing potential lightning damage.

Your home's electrical system should be properly grounded.

The simplest and most effective way to protect expensive electronic equipment is to unplug them before storms approach.

Use surge protectors to keep lightning from destroying costly electrical systems, home electronics, and starting fires.

A bolt of lightning can result in heat of up to 50,000 degrees which often results in a fire. Many fires go unnoticed , burning within the walls of the home or in attic space.. If you smell smoke or sense the possibility of fire, even if there is no visible flame, call the fire department quickly so that they can determine whether there is an immediate hidden danger.

As a precaution, follow up by having a qualified electrician diagnose damaged wiring and other potential hazards as soon as possible.

Although your chances of being struck by lightning are only 1 in 600,000, being prepared can reduce those numbers and keep yourself, your family, and your home safe when lightning strikes.

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