The last two calls I received to repair lightning-damaged wiring were from homes in which wiring systems were extensively protected by TVSS at points of utility connection. Lightning entered wiring through structural walls, and dissipated through the structure. The TVSS may have protected the utility rather than interior systems. Lucky for residents, no fatality or fire resulted from either incident.

Our assumptions that utility systems are the only entry points of lightning into household wiring are as flawed as the disconnect between perceived and measured fatality of strikes. Improved education of both the public and professional might increase awareness of the need for more extensive installations of Franklin lightning rod protection in existing structures.

I worked for GTE & Verizon. When we had lightning strikes on residencial equipment it would be blown 30/50 feet away from the structure with ensueing interior fire damage. Lightning has also traveled over two miles on telephone lines doing extensive damage to anyone unlucky enough to be online at the time. Don't use your cellphone or portable handset during lightning. I also service communications towers and we get down if we can see it. Reports of strikes to towers on clear days with lightning reported twenty (20) miles away. We had customers near windows thrown against walls when lightning struck outside the window. I also saw tree roots 18" deep dug up by the lightning. No one knows for sure what the stuff will do but protect yourself as best you can and use common sense. That means no standing at the tent flap relieving oneself when the lightning is around. Worked with the receipient of that one and he never has been a fast talker since.

Its important to remember why the National Weather service was established. http://www.nws.noaa.gov/pa/history/evolution.php