CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Lightning is one of nature's most deadly forces. With summer storms in full force, protecting yourself and property is a top priority.
Meteorologist Eric Thomas says lightning can strike anyone or anything, so the safest bet is to stay inside during a storm. Even seeking cover under a garage or other shelter isn't sure to keep you from getting hit.
And lightning can strike from a storm that's 30 miles away. But you can only hear thunder from 12 miles away. That means, lightning can hit you or your house from a storm you can't even see or hear.
Every year an estimated 40 people die but hundreds more are seriously injured by lightning strikes.
Property damage is much greater though. Billions of dollars in damage to homes is reported every year from fires or electronic damage caused by lightning strikes.
Eric Bean with ALP Systems says his company installs lightning protection systems to help keep homes from getting hit. Lightning rods are actually so small now, according to Eric, they're the size of pencils or pens.
Prices for homes protection systems start at $1,500.
Another way to keep your inside appliances from being toasted in a lightning storm. Make sure all electronic equipment is plugged into a surge protector. Or, to be extra cautious, unplug all appliances completely.
