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The Dangers That Can Result From a Lightning Strike | SERVPRO® of West Forsyth County
9/26/2022 (Permalink)
With the right fire safety gear, you can ensure your safety and safeguard your family from the majority of home fires. But while manmade causes like cooking are the most common reason for a house fire, your house may also be at risk from natural disasters. These fires are more difficult to prevent.
More than 70,000 damage claims resulting from lightning strikes were filed in 2020. While it is actually quite uncommon for a person to be struck by lightning, your property is considerably more vulnerable. And when lightning does hit, it has the power to knock out your power, destroy trees and even ignite a fire.
About 6,000 lightning strikes are thought to occur every minute. That means we are all at risk of being impacted by this weather hazard, and we should all prepare our homes before lightning has a chance to strike.
Lightning is a massive bolt of electricity that occurs between clouds in the air and the ground. Lightning is commonly created during thunderstorms, but it can also strike during a volcanic eruption, a strong wildfire or even a severe snowstorm.
Although lightning is typically associated with dangerous weather, it can also happen when the sky is clear and the air is calm. “Dry lightning” occurs in the absence of rain and is capable of starting wildfires.
So, in addition to storm preparation, we also need to be fire-prepared.
Your property may sustain significant damage from a lightning strike, including flames. The heat of the hit itself or an electrical charge brought on by the strike both have the ability to ignite a fire.
When lightning sparks a fire in your home, you might not notice it right away as it will usually begin to burn in your attic or between your walls. But you will likely hear the explosive boom of the strike.
Inspect the area for traces of burning and call the fire department immediately if you spot black stains or smell smoke.
A lightning rod is one of the best ways to safeguard your home from flames caused by lightning. This tool works to direct the power of a strike straight into the ground so that your home isn’t damaged by lightning’s extremely hot temperatures and strong electrical current.
Even if you take steps to protect your house from lightning, a wildfire caused by lightning may still be a threat. Where you live and the season dictate when you may be affected by lightning fires, but lightning is responsible for the ignition of about 9,000 fires each year.
You can take steps to defend your house from lightning-related wildfires. Maintain a tidy yard clear of dead or dying plants, and use defensible zones to safeguard your home from the dangers of lightning.
Installing smoke alarms on each floor of your home is another way you can stay one step ahead of flames and protect your property.
If your home is damaged by flames, we can be on the scene fast to begin the restoration process. Recovering from a house fire is never easy, but our team works hard to make it easier for you by utilizing extensive knowledge and cutting-edge technology to restore your home as fast as possible.
Have you experienced smoke or fire damage in your home? Call us today to get the restoration finished fast. 336-946-1131.