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Should You Turn Off Your TV When It's Lightning?

Published in Lightning Safety 2 mins read

Yes, you should turn off your TV when it's lightning.

The reference information provided indicates that while a house is generally a safe place to be during a thunderstorm, it is important to avoid anything that conducts electricity. This includes things such as corded phones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, and computers. Therefore, to ensure your safety it is a good idea to turn off and unplug your TV, as it is connected to an electrical outlet and may be connected via a cable or satellite wire.

Here is a summary of why this is important:

  • Electrical Conductivity: Lightning strikes can travel through electrical wiring. If your TV is plugged in during a thunderstorm, it becomes a potential path for lightning energy.
  • Power Surge Risk: Even if lightning doesn't strike your house directly, nearby strikes can cause power surges that can damage your TV and other electronics.
  • Safety: By turning off and unplugging your TV, you reduce the risk of electrical shock.

Precautions to Take During a Thunderstorm:

To further enhance safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following:

<ul>
    <li>Turn off and unplug all non-essential electrical appliances.</li>
    <li>Stay away from corded phones and computers.</li>
    <li>Avoid contact with plumbing, metal doors, and windows.</li>
    <li>Stay indoors until the storm has passed.</li>
</ul>

By taking these simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury or damage caused by lightning strikes.

Action Reason Benefit
Turn off TV Reduces electrical conductivity Less chance of damage or shock
Unplug TV Removes direct link to electrical grid Prevents power surge damage
Avoid other electrical appliances Prevents other potential paths for lightning Maximizes safety throughout the home

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