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Thunder and lightning storms are common during the spring, summer and fall in Georgia. Homes with storm damage are not uncommon, because a lightning strike can cause a tree to fall on a roof or patio and both thunder vibrations and lightning can shatter windows.
Your interior electrical system should be grounded and exterior metal such as roof gutters should also allow a lightning strike to travel along the outside of a building into the ground. (This is the lightning rod concept developed by Benjamin Franklin over 250 years ago.)
To prepare for lightning storms, follow these safety tips:
- Bring all children and pets inside.
- Use a battery-powered radio for weather information and have a flashlight handy.
- Unplug all computers, televisions, lamps and small appliances, even if they have surge protectors.
- Turn off the gas or electric stove and oven.
- Avoid running water and washing during the storm.
- Stay away from windows.
- Only use your phone in an emergency.
Electrical storms usually move through within an hour on average but they can take down power and telephone lines and affect cell phone towers if accompanied by high winds.
Parker Young Construction encourages everyone in Georgia to be prepared for heavy storms.