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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do lightning rods attract lightning?
   Definitely not. Lightning rods do not attract or prevent lightning strikes. A lightning protection system simply intercepts a lightning strike and provides a path to the ground to harmlessly discharge the dangerous electricity.
   
   
2. Do nearby trees protect structures from lightning?
   No! Trees are actually very poor conductors of electricity. Lightning striking a nearby tree could sideflash, causing serious damage to your home. Valuable trees can be protected and are often made part of the lightning protection system.
   
   
3. Do TV Antennas and satellite dishes protect structures from lightning?
   No! These are actually lightning targets that are not adequately grounded to safely handle the dangerous lightning current. Whenever possible, old antennas which serve no useful purpose should be removed from a structure.
   
   
4. Can surge arrestors, suppressors and "whole-house protectors" protect my home?
   No! Surge suppressors are important components of a complete system, but can do nothing to protect a structure against direct lightning strikes. Arresters must be installed in conjunction with a lightning protection system (air terminals, bonding and grounding) to provide whole house protection.
   
   
5. Doesn't our insurance cover damages caused by lightning?
   While this is generally true for an initial occurrence with lightning, many insurance companies will deny second or third lightning claims and many will nonrenew a policy after a lightning claim is entered.
   
   
6. Am i safe if my home is in a low lying area?
   No! Lightning frequently strikes in low areas as well as in higher elevations.
   
   
7. Do lightning rods look unsightly?
   Definitely not! Modern lightning protection systems are inconspicuous and virtually undetectable. An experienced lightning protection contractor will design your system to blend with your architecture - aesthetics are never compromised.
   
   
8. Do lightning rods require routine maintenance?
   No! Lightning protection systems are constructed of durable materials that are likely to outlast most other fixtures on your home. No maintenance is required unless changes are made to your structure or roof.
   
   
9. Are lightning rods expensive?
   No! Lightning protection is one of the least expensive improvements you can purchase for your home and it offers the best type of insurance-peace of mind and proven protection for your family, home and valuables. It's a big return on a small investment.
   
   

Lightning Facts

1. Some people have heard the myth that lightning never strikes the same place twice, therefore they do not need lightning protection on their home. This is NOT true, and one of the many myths in circulation.
   
   
2. You are in danger of lightning if you hear thunder.
   
   
3. There are 100,000 thunderstorms every year in the United States.
   
   
4. Thunderstorms cause an average of 200 deaths and 700 injuries per year in the U.S.
   
   
5. Most strikes are 2 to 3 miles long and carry a current of 10,000 amps at 100 million volts.
   
   
6. A typical lightning bolt is about as wide as a quarter to a half dollar.
   
   
7. It is estimated that lightning strikes the earth approximately 100 times each second.(8 million times per day)
   
   
8. About 20 percent of people struck by lightning are killed.
   
   
9. Right now, there are more than 1800 thunderstorms in progress.
   
   
10. The Empire State Building in New York is struck about 23 times a year.

Common misconceptions about lightning & your home

1. "Lightning will strike a tree instead of my house."
   
   
2. "My home is safe because it is grounded"
   
   
3. "My home stands lower than my neighbors or other objects."
   
   
4. "My home is safe since it has never been struck before."
   
   
5. "I have plug-in suppressors for protection."
   
   
6. "My home is insured."
   
   
7. "Lightning never strikes twice."
   
   
8. "My neighbor has lightning protection and it will hit him before me."
   
   
9. "My home is protected by overhead power lines."
   
   
10. "Lightning rods attract lightning." (THEY DON'T! see F.A.Q)
    
    
11. "It will never happen to me!"

Do's and Don'ts for Lightning Safety

1. Seek shelter in a protected home or building.
   
   
2. Avoid open fields or high terrain. If you are caught in the middle of a field and you feel your hair standing on end, squat down, put your hands on your knees and tuck your head down between your knees. Do not lie down or put your hands to the ground.
   
   
3. You should avoid areas such as lakes, beaches, boats, machinery, golf carts, motorcycles or bicycles. If at all possible, you should take shelter in a low-lying area or an automobile.
   
   
4. To avoid dangerous side flashes, you should stay away from trees, fences and power lines.
   
   
5. At home, you should avoid the telephone and other electronic appliances. Also, stay away from open doors or windows and all metal objects.