A direct lightning strike is rare. Far more common is a nearby strike inducing a surge in long cables, which travels to the most expensive equipment at the other end: the recorder, the switch or the radio.

Earth everything properly

Masts, poles and equipment cabinets need a proper earth connection, bonded to the building's earthing system. An earth that has never been tested may not be an earth at all; ask for the resistance to be measured.

Put surge protectors on long cable runs

Fit surge protection devices on network and power cables where they enter the building, and at the far end on poles. They are inexpensive compared with the equipment they protect, and are designed to be replaced after taking a surge.

Use fibre between buildings

Glass does not conduct electricity. Running fibre between buildings or out to a distant gatehouse removes the path a surge would follow.

Mount sensibly

Keep cameras and antennas below the top of a protected mast or building where possible, and avoid running cables along the outside of the highest point of a roof.

Inspect before the rains

Check earth connections, replace corroded fittings and look at surge protector indicators before the rainy season starts. It is much cheaper than replacing a recorder in the middle of it.