As the monsoon blesses us with its presence, the cool showers are often accompanied by the alarming crackle of lightning. During these storms, it's common to wonder if you should turn off household appliances like the AC, TV, or refrigerator. Here’s why it’s crucial to consider this safety step. Recent weather patterns across various regions of India have seen not just rain, but also frequent lightning strikes. These can cause significant damage to electronic devices at home due to sudden power surges. When lightning strikes nearby, it can send a high voltage shock through the power lines that can overload and damage connected appliances. To minimize the risk, experts recommend disconnecting these devices from the power source. Firstly, it’s important to not only switch off but also unplug major appliances. This includes your air conditioner, television, and refrigerator. Though some believe that having these appliances grounded protects them against lightning, it’s not foolproof. The grounding system itself might become a conduit for the lightning’s charge, thus posing risks.
Additionally, during storms, it is safer to avoid using plugged-in electronics altogether. If you must use devices like laptops, ensure they are on battery power and disconnected from any external power sources. As for mobile phones, refrain from charging them during a storm, as they too can get damaged if lightning strikes while they are plugged in.
By taking these simple precautions, you can protect your valuable electronics and ensure that you weather the storm safely.
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