Lightning Fires and what you need to know

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning damage is no joke. Learn how to stay prepared.

Keeping safe during a storm and preventative measures.  

The first thing you do if you’re preparing for a lightning storm is to unplug or turn off appliances like computers or TVs.  It’s best to stay off electronic equipment that is plugged in during a storm and to avoid showering or using running water.  Make sure to stay inside during these storms.   

What is Lightning and how can it enter my home? 

A lightning strike is an electrical charge in the atmosphere and can supply hundreds of millions of volts shocking into your home.  Lightening can cause roof and electrical damage, but can even cause fires in your home.  Lightning can enter your home through several different places.   

1. Roof
2. TV antenna
3. Chimney
4. Telephone or power line
5. Nearby tree
6. Garage door
7. Cable lines
8. Irrigation system
9. Gas piping

How to spot lightning fire damage? 

When it is determined safe to exit your home make sure to inspect your property for any damage.  A lot of times lightning fires actually start in enclosed spaces like the attic or basement first making it harder for smoke alarms to detect a fire until it is too late.  Look for things such as missing shingles or chimney damage if you believe your house was hit by lightning.   

If you suspect damage has occurred to your home call the fire department immediately as there could be a slow burn in your home.  If your home has been affected by fire, we can make sure to restore your home to its previous condition.  Call SERVPRO of West Beaver County for all of your property restoration needs.