Will Lightning Strike Your House?

By Vic Shallow | November 1, 2009 | Popularity: unranked (?)

Did you know that lightning kills more people than tornados and hurricanes each year. It normally strikes about 270,000 times and kills an average of 76 people each year. 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.

The number of lightening-related insurance claims filed by policyholders and paid by insurance companies since 2004, has dropped almost 11.5%. The average cost per claim however, has escalated almost 70% over the past five years. Experts on insurance-related matters, blame increased claims cost on two things: Severe storms and more and more 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.

Stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances.

Aviod using a telephone during storms. Use a cell phone instead.

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

Stay away from single trees, metal objects, open areas, and hilltops.

Look for shelter in a nearby home or car.

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

Make sure your home’s electrical system is properly grounded.

Unplugging expensive electronic equipment is the simplest way to protect it from lightning damage.

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

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

It is also a good idea to follow up by having a qualified electrician diagnose frayed 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.

To get related articles and get insurance quotes go to home insurance comparison or compare insurance quotes

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