Lightning storms may not get the same kind of TV exposure as other catastrophic storms…but they should. Especially when you consider the kind of damage it can cause. The good news is, it’s easy and affordable to provide you and your family with all the protection you need.
Each year, thousands of homes and other properties are damaged or destroyed by lightning. It accounts for more than a quarter billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States. Sadly, lightning also is responsible for more deaths and property loss than tornadoes, hurricanes and floods combined. And yet, of all these violent forces of nature, lightning is the only one we can effectively guard against…and affordably, at that!
In fact, at Burke Electric & Solar, we can install a lightning protection system in your home that consists of these basic elements:
- At least two ground rods (electrodes) in your yard at least ten-feet deep.
- Down conductors.
- Gutters, dormers, antenna, satellite dishes and weathervane connected to these rooftop conductors.
- Lightning rods along the ridges of your roof, about 20 feet apart
- Lightning rods within two feet of the outside corners of your chimney.
- Surge protectors on your electrical panel or meter.
- Surge protectors to your household electronic components.
Even without a lightning protection system, there are still several common sense precautions you can take if an electrical storm threatens your neighborhood. These include:
- Do not use your telephone unless there’s an emergency.
- Stay away from all electrical appliances, TVs, fireplaces, metal objects, windows and doors.
- Avoid isolated trees, high ground, bodies of water, or large open areas.
- Seek shelter immediately in a vehicle or enclosed building until the storm blows over.
Where in the U.S. is lightning most likely to strike? In the Northeastern states, caused by the high degree of earth resistivity (the earth’s resistance to conduct current).
To protect your family and home against lightning, and to enjoy greater peace of mind “Around the House”, call Burke Electric & Solar today…and save $100 on a professionally installed lightning or surge protection systems with the coupons below. |
