It`s ELECTRIC..Boogie woogie, woogie!

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

April showers bring May flowers. This rain we have been getting can seem to be overwhelming during these times of self quarantine and self isolation. I definitely love being able to go outside and enjoy the sun, warm temperatures and fresh air. Those days will be here soon but those days bring the threat of thunder and lightning storms. Storms are not an event we can avoid but we can prepare.

A lightning strike will cause a loud boom and rattle your home.Did you know that a lightning strike on a home causes fire a majority of the time? The lightning strike can reach temperatures of 50,000 degrees. That is some very intense electricity and heat. Homes that are newer are better prepared to absorb the strike than an older home, sometimes only creating minimal exterior damage. The real concern no matter the age of the home is the interior structure of water pipes and electrical wiring. Call the fire department immediately. There may be no visible damage inside the home but lightning strike tends to operate behind the walls and in attics. The power surge can blow circuits and burn wires leading to a fire behind your walls that can go unnoticed until it is too late. The lightning can also follow water pipes until they are able to get to ground and if it is within or located on or in flammable objects then a fire will happen.

Calling the fire company as soon as the lightning strike happens will help prevent further damage or loss in your home because if there is a fire behind your walls or in your attic you will not see or smell it until it is too late. Also call an electrician to check the electrical systems throughout your home for function and if they find any damage,  repair it immediately. One last option would be to have a lightning rod/rods installed on your home. They will help provide a path of low resistance for the lightning to follow if a strike occurs. Although they are pricey, it can be worth it to prevent damage to your home.There are some insurance companies that will provide incentives for installing a safety feature that will save for all involved as well as heartache and stress for you.

If you do have damage from a fire caused by lightning or any other source, reach out to us here at SERVPRO of White Plains and New Rochelle. Our technicians are certified and experienced to return your home to its original condition.