Thunderstorms can pose a serious danger to the safety of people and homes. When lightning strikes a structure or nearby area, the damage can be considerable, especially if proper precautions are not taken. In this article, you will discover the best tips to follow during a thunderstorm to ensure the safety of you, your family and your home.
1. Unplug Electrical Devices
During a thunderstorm, one of the first things to do is to unplug electrical appliances and electronic devices from the power socket. Surges caused by lightning can irreparably damage televisions, computers, refrigerators and other appliances.
Switch off and unplug devices before the storm arrives to avoid short circuits and faults.
Consider installing surge arresters to protect electrical devices even when you are not at home.
2. Avoid the use of Lifts
During a thunderstorm, the use of lifts is not recommended. If lightning strikes the building, it could cause a power failure and block the lift with people inside. Better to opt for the stairs until the storm is over.
3. Close Windows and Doors
To protect yourself from gusts of wind and driving rain, close all windows and doors in your home. This will prevent internal water damage and reduce the possibility of dangerous draughts, which could attract nearby lightning.
4. Avoid contact with electrical and conductive objects
During a thunderstorm, lightning tends to follow conductive paths. Avoid contact with metal objects or anything connected to the electrical network, such as pipes, appliances, landline phones, and other devices.
- Do not take showers or baths during a thunderstorm, as water can conduct electricity, putting you at risk of electrocution.
- Avoid using a landline phone and, if necessary, use a mobile phone instead.
5. Stay away from Windows and Balconies
Even though a thunderstorm may seem spectacular, it is important to stay away from windows and balconies. A lightning strike could hit a nearby object or even shatter glass, posing a serious risk to your safety.
6. Avoid going outdoors
If the storm is in progress, try not to leave the house. If you are outdoors, avoid standing in elevated areas or sheltering under trees, light poles or metal structures, which could attract lightning.
7. Pay Attention to Nearby Lightning
Even if lightning does not strike your house directly, a lightning strike in the vicinity can cause surges that propagate through the ground and still damage electrical systems or put your safety at risk.
8. Consider Installing an Advanced Protection System
If you live in an area prone to frequent thunderstorms, it is highly recommended to install a lightning protection system such as Antimpatto® Technology. This system not only protects your home from direct lightning strikes but also prevents power surges that could damage your electrical systems and devices.
Now that you know how to protect yourself during a storm, you also know how to prevent damage!
Discover Antimpatto® Technology and protect your home comprehensively from lightning and surges.
