Iowa's Role in a Definitive Study on Lightning and Fires

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In the heart of the Midwest, a quiet but profound revolution in building safety was taking place in the early 20th century. Iowa, known for its vast farmlands and severe weather, became an unexpected epicenter for a definitive study on lightning and fires. A dataset from fire insurance inspectors in Iowa paints a compelling picture of the effectiveness of lightning protection systems.

The Lightning Fire Data Speaks Volumes

The data, spanning seventeen years, compares the incidence of lightning fires in structures equipped with lightning rods ("rodded") and those without them ("not rodded"). The numbers are stark. In 1922, for instance, there were 1,001 fires reported in not rodded structures, with losses amounting to $770,703. In stark contrast, rodded structures saw only 8 fires with a loss of $13,293. This pattern is consistent across the years, showcasing a dramatic reduction in both the number of fires and the financial losses in rodded buildings.

Understanding Lightning Rods

Benjamin Franklin's invention of the lightning rod in the 1750s was a groundbreaking step in building protection. Franklin’s invention was adopted into standard practice by the National Fire Protection Association’s Specifications for Protection of Buildings Against Lightning in 1904.  The basic premise of the lightning protection system described in that early document still holds true and is embodied in Standard NFPA 780 to this day. The lightning protection system consists of rooftop rods interconnected by metallic cables leading to ground and bonding connections.  During a lightning strike, the system safely directs the electric charge to the ground, preventing damage to the structure. Learn more about lightning rods.

The Broader Impact of Lightning Fire Statistics

Iowa's data is not just a collection of numbers but a testament to the effectiveness of the system defined by the NFPA. The significant discrepancy in fire occurrences and financial losses between rodded and not rodded buildings provides empirical evidence supporting the use of lightning protection systems. The implications of this data extend beyond Iowa. It underscores the importance of lightning protection systems in safeguarding structures, particularly in areas prone to thunderstorms. Moreover, it highlights the potential for significant financial savings by mitigating the damage caused by lightning strikes.

Lightning Rods Prevent Lightning Fire Disasters

Looking back at Iowa's historical data, we are reminded of the enduring relevance of Benjamin Franklin's invention. The evidence is clear and compelling: lightning protection systems are not just a precaution but a necessity for safeguarding structures against the whims of nature. Iowa's experience serves as a definitive proof, echoing through the halls of history, of the striking truth about the effectiveness of lightning rods.

Source:  State of Iowa – State Fire Marshall Reports, 1922 – 1939