The FYI on Lightning

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

If lightning, or other storm conditions, cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Albany and Americus is Here to Help!

Thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence in Southwest Georgia, and along with these storms often comes lightning.  Lightning strikes can be dangerous for both people and property, creating the possibility of bodily injury, risk of property fire, and electrical issues for homes or businesses.

Following are some tips from the National Weather Service to keep yourself, and your loved ones, safe from lightning:

Lightning Safety Once Indoors:

1. Stay off electronic equipment, such as computers or corded phones, that put you in direct contact with electricity.
2. Avoid plumbing, such as sinks and bathtubs, as metal piping can transmit electrical current.
3. Stay away from windows and doors; the safest area of the building is an interior room.
4. Do not lean against concrete walls or lie on concrete floors.

Lightning Strike Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips:

If you find yourself outside with no shelter option during a lightning storm, the following actions can help reduce the risk of injury from a lightning strike:

1. Search for lower ground- Avoid hills, cliffs, mountains, or any other natural structure elevates you.
2. Immediately get out of and away from all bodies of water.
3. Stay away from objects that can easily conduct electricity, such as metal fences and power lines.
4. Never seek shelter under an isolated tree, as the tree can serve as a conductor for a lightning bolt.

Additionally, State Farm provides these tips for protecting your property from lightning during a thunderstorm:

1. Use surge protectors for your electronic devices or consider installing a whole home surge protection system. Whole home systems absorb larger surges that come from outside your home. This device can be installed on the electrical meter by the utility company, or next to the electric service panel by an electrician.
2. Have your property’s grounding system check by a professional. Many unsafe situations related to lighting occur when a home or business is not properly grounded, allowing electricity to flow through the walls, increasing the risk of fire.

If recent storms have caused damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Albany and Americus at 229-439-2048 for help.  Our team of highly trained professionals offers 24/7 emergency response and will help make your damage “Like it never even happened.”