I learned something last week, and I'd like to pass the nugget of wisdom along to you.
When a heavy thunderstorm is bearing down on your home, unplug your DSL or cable modem from the wall if you're in a position to do so.
My wife called me at work last Tuesday to tell me that the power was out and the dog had run away. By the time I got home, the lights were back on and the dog had returned muddy and soaked. Later, we found out that those were only minor and temporary annoyances. The bigger, longer-lasting problem was that our modem, wireless router and computer were all fried. Normally, I'm a big fan of anything fried, but not this time. Whatever happened came through the phone line and destroyed everything in its path. (I'll be sure to stay away from the phone during a storm from now on as well.)
I've since replaced the modem, thanks to the good folks at AT&T and UPS. We have internet service again, but only on our laptop (and not wireless). I guess next I'll have to buy a new router, then begin to assess the damage on our desktop computer. What a pain in the ass.
I would also implore those who have large amounts of personal items like photos, videos and music on their computer, to back it all up on an external hard drive or on CD. I would hate to lose all those years of memories because of a stupid electrical storm. Thankfully, no matter how damaged our computer is, we have an unharmed, external hard drive that houses all of our photos and my collection of 80's power ballads. (Phew, don't know where I'd be without "Sister Christian" by Night Ranger.)
There. That's the end of the useful information. Now back to the mindless drivel that will do nothing to enhance your life.
2 comments:
Geez, that really sucks. Thanks for the reminding though. Always say I'm gonna do those things but never do.
strangely, in the weird world of coincidences, on mythbusters today they tested out the myth of not wanting to be on the phone (a corded one) or in the shower during a thunderstorm. it turns out that should your electric/phone lines get directly hit, you could get seriously (possibly dead serious) injured if you're talking on the phone, and you probably wouldn't want to be in the shower, too. i think i'll still brave a shower during nature's light show, but its interesting that what mom was always so worried about is true... only, don't tell her... deal?
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