We don’t have to tell you how dangerous a lightning storm can be.
Downright scary! Lightning strikes can cause home fires. Another potential lightning threat is blowing up all of your electronic equipment. Just suppose your new $4,000 TV was hit by lightning.
Poof! Your TV is gone in a microsecond. Can this really happen? Most definitely, yes! Lightning and sensitive electronic equipment do not mix!
Did you know that in a recent year lightning strikes cost $739 million in homeowners insurance losses?
With 99,871 claims, this comes out to an average of almost $7,400 per claim. As of 2014, the worst states to live in for lightning damage per the insurance industry:
- Florida with 10,440 claims
- Georgia with 9,805 claims
Do we have your attention yet?
What can I do to protect my electronic devices?
First, identify the expensive appliances and devices you own that have electronic parts.
- Televisions
- Computers and laptops
- Smartphones
- Tablets and iPads
- iPods and mp3 players
- Stereo systems and speakers
- DVD and blue ray players
- Intercom systems
- Answering machines
- Satellite receivers
- Air conditioners
These are just a few examples. Look around your home to identify what you have in your house.
What practical steps can you take to protect your belonging from lightning damage?
- Unplug all appliances and other electrical items listed above.
- If you can’t unplug it, then turn it OFF.
- Stay off corded phones or any devices that are connected to electricity.
- Invest in a whole house surge suppression system that is installed in your electrical panel. If you have updated your electrical wiring lately contact your insurance agent to see if you qualify for a wiring upgrade discount.
- Invest in a point of use surge protector that plugs into the wall where your device is located.
- Invest in replacement cost insurance so you get enough money to replace your damaged items.
- Talk to your InsuranceHub agent about equipment breakdown insurance. This policy may protect your home if power surges cause damage to products or lead to things like spoiled food, lost income or emergency repairs.
Your local agents at InsuranceHub are available to answer any questions you may have about lightning damage repairs and claims. We hope you have found this information helpful. Protect your belongings by implementing these surges the next time you hear a thunderbolt. Make this a lifelong habit and you will avoid many headaches down the road.