Pet Owners Need To Unplug This One Thing Before Every Thunderstorm

You'd never guess this one would be the culprit. A home in Westport, Connecticut, caught fire during a fast-moving summer storm, and it wasn't bad wiring or an overloaded outlet that started it. It was something practically every dog owner has running in their yard right now, and most people have absolutely no idea it's a risk.

Photo Credit: Westport Fire Department

So What Actually Caused The Fire?

Lightning struck an underground electric pet fence, sometimes called an invisible fence, and the surge it caused ended up damaging parts of the home. Fire Marshal Terry Dunn explained the issue pretty simply. These systems are especially risky because if lightning strikes nearby, it can travel right through that wiring, damage your home, and potentially start a fire.

Why Is This Specific Device Such A Problem?

Unlike most appliances you actually think about, invisible fences are always on, always connected, and easy to completely forget about. The good news is the fix takes almost no effort. Dunn says it only takes a few seconds to unplug the system before a storm rolls in, and it's a smart precaution to take. And don't worry about your dog being left unprotected; most systems come with battery backup, so your pet stays secure even if the main unit gets unplugged. Still, bringing your dog inside during a storm is always your safest bet.

What Else Should You Unplug During A Storm?

Your invisible fence isn't the only device at risk. Even if your laptop or phone isn't actively charging but is still plugged in, a nearby lightning strike can send a power surge through your home's wiring anyway, frying devices or tripping your circuit breakers. Better safe than sorry, just unplug it all.

Is There A More Permanent Fix?

If you want extra peace of mind, you can install a whole-home lightning protection system that includes lightning rods, conductors, a grounding system, and surge protection, which diverts lightning safely into the ground instead of through your house. A solid starting point is a surge-protection device installed at your electrical panel, which typically starts around $300 and protects everything from your fridge to your air fryer. A little prep now can save you a serious headache (and a fire) later.