Although direct lightning strikes are rare, some objects present in your home can be magnets for electric shocks. Learn how to protect yourself against risks and protect your home and electrical installation from possible property damage.
To discover
What to do in your garden in summer?
The parasol
In summer, the umbrella is the ideal companion to enjoy the garden, but it also represents a risk during thunderstorms. If lightning strikes the elements at height (hence the interest of placing a lightning rod on your roof as a lightning protection system), it can also be attracted by conductive materials:
- concrete,
- trees,
- pylons,
- electricity poles,
- a metal object
- and even umbrellas.
Indeed, the metal structure of the parasol risks lightning strike, endangering people nearby. In stormy weather and conducive to lightning, store the umbrella in a safe place to prevent it from being struck by lightning. Also avoid using an umbrella if you are outside in case of a thunderstorm.
The refrigerator
Your refrigerator, essential for keeping your food fresh, can also attract lightning. Indeed, its metal parts, including the compressor and coils, can serve as electrical conductors and cause electrocution see fires as indirect effects of an overvoltage. If a lightning strike hits your home, it could follow these conductive paths and cause significant damage. To minimize this risk, make sure your refrigerator is properly grounded and keep it away from windows as much as possible.
Read alsoShould you unplug your refrigerator when you go on vacation?
The radiator
Electric heaters, made of metal and connected to the electrical network, are also sensitive to electric discharges. If your home has electric heaters, make sure they are properly grounded and avoid touching them during a thunderstorm. Also, if you use space heaters, unplug them in stormy weather to avoid any risk of electrocution.
Television
Your TV, especially if it's connected to an antenna or outdoor cable, can attract lightning. Conductor cables can carry electricity to your TV. To protect your television from lightning, it is best to unplug it during a thunderstorm. You can also consider installing NF standard lightning protection devices on electrical outlets and antenna cable to divert electrical current in case of discharge and ensure the protection of electrical installations and equipment in your home.
The internet box
The internet box, essential to stay connected, is another object that can attract lightning in your home. Like many electronic devices (computer, landline telephone, etc.), it contains components sensitive to electrical surges. To offer lightning protection to your box, choose a surge protector for your connection. This will divert electricity to earth in the event of a power surge caused by a lightning impact.
To protect your home and electronics from the effects of lightning, take simple steps like properly grounding your electrical appliances, using surge arresters in your electrical panel, installing lightning rods on your roof, and unplugging appliances during a thunderstorm. Do not hesitate to consult a professional if you have doubts about the electrical safety of your home. By remaining vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage related to lightning strikes in your home.