Taking precautions to protect your computer during storms is very important since you could end up with burned out electronics if a lightning strike and you somehow left your devices connected to its power source. During an electrical storm, you need to make sure you unplug the laptops, computers, tv, and all another electronic device from the power source to avoid any such accidents. Some precaution you can take to protect your PC during storms are:
- Turn off your monitor and shut down your computer.
You should also turn off external drives and peripherals. Even if your devices are in standby or sleep mode while it’s plugged into a socket that’s powered on it has a risk of burning out during a storm, therefore, you should physically disconnect your devices to protect it from a lightning surge.
- Back up your data and keep the copy in a safe place.
Back up all your important data and unplug the power cords from all devices so you don’t lose any important documents.
- Use surge protectors
The surge protector looks like a bulky power strip which removes this spike and pushes it away from the outlets and your computer when a power spike hits. If you happen to be home, unplug the surge protector in the case of a threatening storm for the ultimate protection.
- Using plastic bags
If located near a window, you may want to cover your computer with a plastic bag in case water comes in. Your electronic devices possess the risk of malfunctioning if water somehow reaches it and you need to make sure during storms you keep your devices safe and water resistant.
- Double Check devices after the storm.
Be careful when reconnecting your electronic devices to wall outlets and rebooting. If there is any indication that outlets, equipment or flooring has been exposed to water or moisture, wait until the equipment is thoroughly dried out even if that means waiting a few days to make sure your devices are working properly.