House got hit by lightning

[Espresso]

I just now finally got my internet back( the last of MANY thigns).
We are all fine the house didnt burn down or anything. It has been a long long week. I'm goin gto bed. I'll post more as I get the chance.

[bigdogdad]

Be afraid, very afraid! Kidding aside, glad things weren't too serious. But really, pay attention to Hurricane warnings this year.

[CREWZIN]

With all the thunder showers and lighting we're having I always pay attention to how close the storm is and unplug both computers and my new flat screen whenever they get close. Everything plugged into surge protectors and the whole house electric has one plus lightning rods but I'm taking no chances. We got hit up in Maryland and lost all the phones and my sons computer (strike came in thru the telephone lines) and don't want to go thru that again.

Espresso, glad nobody was hurt, house is still in one piece.

[bigdogdad]

Crewzin, you brought up a very good point that I believe alot of people aren't aware about. Both cable tv and phone lines are a source for lighting to come through on. Not only does one have to protect the electrical outlets they also have to have the surge protection on the cable and tv. I had my local electrical company put on their protection at the circuit breaker box and I have done it to each room with tv's, stereo's and computers. A must do here in Florida.

[Espresso]

I have surge protectors on everything( TV's radio's,ect..). I dont know what happened to the PC, but the scanner, & speakers are on the same protector & they worked fine after the strike. It was the surge through the modem plug that did the damage( I have cable modem, no phone lines).
I have way to much electronics in this house. It would be stupid to not have them. BUT, I cant find the recipts to verify that I bought them new. S I dont have a warranty on them( I never thought about it, but I think I lost them in the Hurricane). I went out & bought all new protectors.
I also have a grounding rod on the house, But somehow it struck the pole that sticks out the roof where the power lines go to the breaker box( it's on the outside wall).
I just REALLY glad it didnt strike the tree over our house( a Historic Oak, about 45 ft tall, maybe more).

[Jimbo]

Glad to hear everything is back to normal.
We don't have any power lines everything is under ground.
At least where I live.