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Did you know that lightning kills more people than tornados and hurricanes each year. It normally strikes about 270,000 times and kills an average of 76 people each year. A typical home insurance policy protects our homes from lightning damage. when you purchase comprehensive insurance with your auto policy, any damage to your vehicle is covered as well. Your health insurance will cover medical expenses in the event you or a family member were to be struck by lightning.

The number of lightening-related insurance claims filed by policyholders and paid by insurance companies has dropped almost 11.5% since 2004. However, the average cost per claim has escalated almost 70% over the past five years.The Experts on insurance-related matters, blame increased claims cost on two things: Severe storms and a drastic increase in consumer electronics in homes.

High dollar electronics are now common place in the average houshold, which has a significant impact on insurance claims losses. While we enjoy having sound systems, computers, and high definition televisions , these expensive electronics have contributed greatly to the cost of the average lightning related claim.

While we can't control the weather, we can take steps to protect ourselves, our families and our homes from the effects of lightning. Don't underestimate the power of lightning. Instead, do your part to lower insurance rates-and keep loved ones, your home and possessions safe.

Here Are Some Tips To Stay Safe

Stay away from sinks, baths and water faucets.

Stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances.

Aviod using a telephone during storms. Use a cell phone instead.

Go to an area of lower elevation when storms are approaching.

Stay away from solitary trees, open areas, hilltops, metal objects and bodies of water.

Look for shelter in a nearby home or car.

A properly installed lightning protection system is approximately 99% effective in preventing potential lightning damage.

Make sure your home's electrical system is properly grounded.

The simplest and most effective way to protect expensive electronic equipment is to unplug them before storms approach.

To keep lightning from destroying costly electrical systems, home electronics, and starting fires, use surge protectors

A bolt of lightning can result in heat of up to 50,000 degrees farenheit which often results in a fire. Many fires go unnoticed , burning in attic space or within the walls of the home. If you smell smoke or sense the possibility of fire, even if there is no visible flame, call the fire department quickly so that they can determine whether there is an immediate hidden danger.

As a precaution, follow up by having a qualified electrician diagnose damaged wiring and other potential hazards as soon as possible.

1 in 600,000 are your chance of being struck by lightning, being prepared can reduce those numbers and keep yourself, your family, and your home safe when lightning strikes.