When lightning cracks across the sky, it’s not just the weather that becomes electric—your home appliances are at risk too.

Many families face “broken televisions, damaged refrigerators, and fried computers” each year due to storm-related power surges.

Why unplugging matters
Even with circuit breakers or surge protectors, homes aren’t fully protected. “Lightning can directly strike a building, a nearby tree, or, more often, power or telephone lines,” sending voltage into your appliances through connected cables.

What to unplug first
When storms approach or alerts are issued, immediately disconnect these high-risk devices:

“Televisions (most important), speakers, home cinema”

Charging devices like “computers, tablets, phones”

Kitchen appliances: oven, microwave, coffee makers, induction hob