PC protection during lightning storms — What is the best immediate way to protect a running PC and modem at home when a thunderstorm develops at night?

Introduction / Context:
Lightning-induced surges can enter through power and telecom lines. While protective devices reduce risk, the most certain way to prevent damage in a live storm is complete physical isolation from those conductors.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Home user with a PC and dial-up or DSL modem connected to phone line.
• Thunderstorm is active; immediate action is sought.
• Goal: minimize risk to equipment and safety.

Concept / Approach:

Surge suppressors help, but a direct or nearby strike can exceed their ratings. Removing conductive paths (mains plug and telephone line) is the definitive protection because it prevents surge energy from coupling into the equipment.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Utility and insurer recommendations consistently state that unplugging is the only sure protection against severe surges during lightning events.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Lightning rods protect structures, not individual electronics; surge protectors can be overwhelmed; having protectors on both lines reduces risk but is less certain than physical disconnection; the joke option is non-technical.

Common Pitfalls:

Unplugging only the power while leaving the modem line connected, which can still channel a damaging surge into the PC.

Final Answer:

Unplug the PC from mains and disconnect the phone line from the modem.