In the first quarter of 2017 alone, thunderstorms caused a record $5.7 billion in losses, and lightning kills and average of 30 people a year. Learn how to keep you, your family, and property safe from lightning.

Lightning is Deadly

  • An average of 22,600 fires were caused by lightning between 2007 and 2011
  • According to Aon Benfield’s Impact Forecasting, insured losses from lightning strikes are at an all-time high. 
  • 30 people die a year from lightning strikes according to the National Weather Service
  • According to the Lighting Protection Institute, the top 5 states most often struck by lighting are:
    1. Florida: 25.3 strikes per square mile
    2. Louisiana: 20.3 strikes per square mile
    3. Mississippi: 18.0 strikes per square mile
    4. Alabama 15.9 strikes per square mile
    5. South Carolina and Oklahoma (tied): 14.6 strikes per square mile

Lightning is Far Reaching

  • 1/3 of all lightning related injuries occur indoors. Stay away from:
    • Corded phones
    • Electronics
    • Plumbing
  • Lightning can strike 10 miles from a thunderstorm
  • Lightning can strike anywhere, not just the tallest objects

Lightning Protection

Power surges caused by lightning can damage the electronics in your home

  • Lightning protection systems intercept lightning strikes and provide grounding path for dangerous electricity to discharge safely, leaving occupants and homes safe from harm
  • Panel box surge protective devices (SPDs) serve as the first line of defense against harmful home electrical surges, limiting voltages by diverting currents at the electrical service entrance. Only qualified electricians should install SPDs
  • Point of use surge protectors protect electronics plugged into the device from surges, must be replaced over time or after a major surge event
  • Power strips do not provide surge protection
  • No surge device can handle a direct lightning strike. Unplug sensitive electronics well before a storm to prevent damage