Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Install a lightening protection system on the outside of your home. In the old days they called them lightening rods. It reaches higher than your home or anything attached to it and gives the lightening a direct path to the ground. They are a little more complex these days, but do the same thing, protect your house. There is also a special surge protection device now that can be installed onto your electrical meter. It stops the surge from traveling down the electric lines and cable lines. You can check online for companies that sell and install these type of protection systems.
Step2
Install surge protectors. Also known as SPD's, these protectors plug into your appliances and electronic equipment and divert the surge of electricity from the lightening. There are many types of surge protectors and each has it's own warranty. Be sure to read the manufacturers suggestions and ask a salesperson if you are unsure of what type to use. Surge protectors do break down and need replacing from time to time, so choose one that has light that lets you know when it needs replacing.
Step3
Unplug your electronics if you know lightening is coming. It's always better to take a little extra time unplugging your expensive electronics than having to replace them later. If you are using extension cords, it is better to unplug the entire cord and not at the extension. Leaving any wire hanging about in your house during an electrical storm is just asking for fire.
Step4
Install or have installed phone voltage spike protectors at the entry of your phone lines or between phone jack and terminal equipment. This should protect your phones, however you still should not talk on the phone during an electrical storm. If the lightening is traveling down the line and the protector does not work, you could be injured or killed.
Step5
Cut down tall trees around your home. All trees can fall and damage your home but if you live in an area that is home to "tall pines" than you understand what kind of damage these trees can do. The fact that they grow from 30 to 60 feet and taller in your back yard should also give you clue that the lightening is attracted to them. Keep them at a safe distance from falling on your house, especially if they are dead or there has been a dry spell as they can carry fire with them as they fall.
Novice 
