When you detect thunder, turn off electrical appliances, close doors and windows and try to stay indoors during the storm.
Even with preventive measures, lightning can still cause damage. In this blog post, we will tell you what to do during power cuts and how to act after a power cut and thunderstorm.
Oh, it thundered and the house went dark!
Thunder rumbles, lightning flashes and lights go out at home while household appliances stop working. The thunder has caused a power outage. It is important to turn off the lights in your home, turn off electrical appliances and unplug electrical appliances from wall sockets. In particular, it is recommended to unplug TVs, computers, household appliances and extension cords from wall sockets. If lightning strikes the mains, it can cause a surge pulse that can damage sensitive electrical appliances. The risk of fire is also possible.
Turning off appliances is also important because the fuse system can be overloaded when power returns. Starting several appliances at the same time after a power cut can put extra strain on the fuse box, which can damage it. Therefore, it is best to be careful about starting appliances at the same time and, if possible, stagger their start times, especially if the power outage has been prolonged.
Most modern buildings are equipped with effective protection systems that help prevent the effects of surges. While these protections are commonplace today, one can never be too careful in the face of the forces of nature. Especially for older buildings, it is wise to be extra careful during lightning storms.
For the above reasons, it is a good idea to unplug electrical appliances from wall sockets when you leave home for an extended period of time. You can never be sure how close a thunderstorm will come and how much damage it might cause.
After the storm, inspection round
After heavy thunderstorms, it is a good idea to carry out an inspection both indoors and outdoors. Here's a short checklist to help you identify common damage. However, remember that thunder is a force of nature that can cause unexpected damage. Always think about safety when moving outdoors after a storm.
xObserve your surroundings, especially if your home is near electricity or power lines. If you see downed power lines, be extra careful. Power lines on the ground are extremely dangerous, and you should stay at least 20 meters away from them. Never touch power lines and never try to move or repair them yourself. In addition, if you see that trees or branches have fallen over power lines, be careful. Don't try to remove them yourself, it can increase the risk of electric shock. If the situation seems dangerous, call 112 or your electricity company. 24 Center can help with the necessary repairs.
Check the condition of the buildings carefully. Inspect the roof structure, chimneys and windows for any damage. Pay particular attention to any cracks, loose parts or other signs indicating damage caused by the storm. If you find serious damage, do not enter the building, but call in a professional for a thorough examination and possible repairs.
Walk through the drainage system and check its condition. Clean it thoroughly if necessary. Make sure that gutters, downspouts and other parts are free of debris and leaves that could impede normal water drainage. The drainage system should be regularly inspected to prevent it from becoming clogged during unexpected thunderstorms.
Check electrical appliances, especially the refrigerator and freezer, as well as the condition of wall outlets. It is important to check their condition after a storm, as a damaged electrical appliance or power source can cause a fire. If an appliance does not start, sounds strange or smells burnt, stop using it and contact a repairman. Repairing electrical networks and appliances is the responsibility of professionals, so do not attempt to repair them yourself. There are several professional electricians in the 24 Center network.
If you detect water damage, act quickly and effectively. Immediately close the main water tap to stop the flow of water. Then support or contain the leak with temporary means, such as towels or other appropriate barriers, to prevent the water from causing further damage. Most importantly, minimize the spread of the water and prevent the water from entering other spaces or structures. 24 Centers network can offer assistance in case of water damage.
At 24 Center, we follow the development of the weather forecast around the clock and prepare for thunderstorms. If you need an electrician or other repair help during or after the storm, you can contact us on 020 74 24 70. Don't hesitate to contact us even if you are unsure what to do. We are available around the clock and are always ready to help you.
