Everyone hears stories about lightning strikes, but it’s one of those things that happens to other people, not to you. But if you’re living in the state of Florida, a lightning strike may be more likely than you think.
Central Florida is considered the “lightning capital” of the United States because more lightning strikes occur here than anywhere else across the country. If you’re surprised, you really shouldn’t be. Our local climate provides the perfect ingredients needed to create the type of storm that is accompanied by severe lightning. And because lightning looks for the shortest route from the clouds to the ground, it tends to strike your roof, requiring roofing services in Central Florida to engage in repairs. So what do you do if lightning strikes your roof? Below are a few things to keep in mind.
Stay calm
When lightning strikes, the sound alone can be horrific. It will sound like a massive explosion and even shake your home and rattle the windows. Experiencing a lightning strike can be terrifying, but it’s important that you remain calm. Stay away from the windows, any sources of water and any electronics to avoid being electrocuted and any injuries.
Check for signs of fire
If you see fire or smell smoke, or even think you do, exit your home immediately. House fires caused by a lighting strike may not be readily apparent, but once started, they can spread quickly. Regardless of signs of fire, call your local fire department. A lightning strike can cause power surges that could start an electrical fire inside your walls, where they may smolder and not be visible for a while, so it’s important to have your home checked for any fire risks.
Check your plumbing and wiring
Lightning strikes can cause powerful surges of electricity that may travel through wiring in your home, or even through water, causing damage to wiring or plumbing. Check for any damage and contact a trusted electrician or plumber for repairs as needed. Remember that electrical or plumbing issues are best rectified immediately so they do not become more serious.
Have your roof inspected
As mentioned earlier, electricity takes the shortest route from the clouds to the ground, which means that lightning strikes will almost always hit your roof. Lightning strikes can cause severe damage to your roofing that will only worsen with time, especially during a rainy season. Call for professional roofing services in Central Florida to come and inspect the roof and attic for any damages. Damage to the roof can potentially result in water damage from leaks and more extensive damage to the roof if not taken care of immediately.
Although the chances of a lightning strike are slim, it’s still better to be prepared. If your roof should be struck by lightning, remain calm and check for and take care of any damages immediately. If you find yourself in need of professional roofing services in Central Florida due to a lightning strike, do not hesitate to give the team at Winter Springs Roofing & Repairs a call.