"Chuck Harris" wrote in message
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| One thing I have never been able to determine is whether we would
| be safer with a lightning rod system, or without. My insurance
| company is silent on this issue... you pay the same rates either
| way. In our area, there have been several houses and barns that
| have burned down,due to lightning strikes, and they had lightning
| rod systems. Anecdotal evidence, to be sure.

Lightning strikes up from the best point on the ground. IMO, the safest way
is to install a lightning rod away from the house (separately guyed) but
close enough to protect your property. Just don't stick your tongue on it
when it's stormy out!

N