Lightning Myths

Common Misbeliefs About Lightning Protection

(And Why They’re Dangerous for Homeowners in GA, FL & AL)

There are many old wives’ tales and myths surrounding lightning strikes and how to protect against them. Unfortunately, believing these misconceptions can lead to costly damage, increased risk of fire, and serious personal injury.

Here are 10 of the most common lightning myths—debunked by the experts at Premier Lightning Protection:

1. “Lightning will never strike the same place twice.”

False. In reality, lightning can and does strike the same location multiple times—especially if that location remains a prime target (such as a tall building, tree, or unprotected home on a hill). In fact, structures like the Empire State Building are struck dozens of times per year. If your home remains vulnerable, it can absolutely be struck more than once.

2. “Lightning always strikes down, not up.”

False. While lightning appears to strike from cloud to ground, it actually involves both upward and downward movement. A negative charge descends from the cloud, and a positive charge rises from the ground—often through conductive materials in your home. A properly installed lightning protection system intercepts and safely redirects this dangerous exchange.

3. “Lightning protection systems attract lightning.”

False. A professionally installed system does not draw lightning to your home—it simply provides a safe path for energy to follow if your home is struck. Think of it as a fire sprinkler system: it doesn’t cause fires, but it controls the damage if one occurs. These systems are passive safety measures, not lightning magnets.

4. “My home is already protected by the power company.”

False. While utility companies may include surge protection on power lines, this does not equate to full-home lightning protection. Direct lightning strikes can still cause catastrophic fires, structural damage, and side flashes. Comprehensive protection includes rods, conductors, grounding, bonding, and surge suppressors—working together as a system.

5. “Lightning will only hit the highest point.”

False. Height increases risk, but it’s not the only factor. Lightning often strikes edges, isolated buildings, or taller chimneys or vents, even if there are taller objects nearby. Homes in open fields or near water are especially vulnerable, regardless of whether nearby structures are taller.

6. “My home has never been hit—so I must be safe.”

False. Past luck is not an indicator of future safety. Just because your property hasn’t been hit yet doesn’t mean it won’t be. In Georgia, Florida, and Alabama, thousands of lightning strikes occur each year—many hitting previously untouched areas. It only takes one strike to change everything.

7. “Lightning protection is outdated and no longer used.”

False. Lightning protection has advanced significantly and remains an essential safety measure. Systems today are engineered to meet national standards (NFPA 780, UL 96A) and are recommended by the National Fire Protection Association, insurance providers, and building codes—especially in high-risk zones like the Southeast U.S.

8. “My home is insured—damage will be covered.”

Partially false. While insurance may help with some financial recovery, it won’t protect you from the loss of priceless possessions, displacement from your home, injuries, or the emotional stress that follows. And insurance doesn’t replace irreplaceable items like family heirlooms, photos, or pets. Prevention is far less costly than recovery.

9. “My neighbor has lightning protection, so I don’t need it.”

False. Lightning does not “choose” one home over another based on protection. In fact, your unprotected home could become a more likely target if your neighbor’s system provides a better discharge path. Lightning is unpredictable and can strike anywhere it finds a viable path—even between homes.

10. “It will never happen to me.”

False. This is one of the most dangerous assumptions a homeowner can make. Lightning strikes millions of times per year across the U.S., and Florida, Alabama, and Georgia consistently rank in the top five for strike frequency. Your home is at risk simply by being located in these states. Protection is not just for “other people”—it’s for everyone.

Don’t Rely on Myths—Rely on Science and Experience

At Premier Lightning Protection, we help homeowners across Georgia, Florida, and Alabama make informed, proactive decisions to safeguard their families and properties. Our systems are based on proven science, national safety standards, and real-world experience in lightning-prone regions.

📞 Schedule your free lightning risk assessment today

Don’t leave your home’s safety to chance—or myths. Get protected today.

Why Choose Us?

✔ Expert Installation and Maintenance
✔ Advanced Lightning and Surge Protection Technology
✔ Custom Solutions for Residential Properties
✔ Compliance with Safety Standards

Choose Premier Lightning Protection for unmatched expertise and trusted service across Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. With decades of experience in protecting homes and businesses from dangerous lightning strikes, we use only UL-listed materials and adhere to the strictest national safety standards. Our licensed professionals deliver customized lightning protection systems designed to safeguard your property and ensure peace of mind. From initial assessment to final installation, our commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Don’t leave your safety to chance—trust the Southeast’s leading lightning protection specialists.