Will you leave your router/modem/hub running during the storm?

[dankargo]

Just interested to know what everyone will be doing regarding their internet equipment during the next day or two in places where the storm is targeting.

I'm on Fibre so have a router and BTO modem, currently in two minds whether or not to unplug it - I'm a freelance web designer so I need to have an active internet connection otherwise it can have an affect my work. I can either not use the internet for a day and lose a days work or chance it and leave it on but potentially be without it for weeks if it gets hit by a lightning strike.

Just out of curiosity, if something like this did occur and either the telegraph pole wiring became damaged due to the wet weather or a lightning strike fried equipment, who would pay the charge? As I understand, as we are not a direct Openreach customer they would not waive a call out charge.

[Isitme]

If there is lightning in your area it is always better to disconnect (unplug power and phone) all of your telephones/modems. It is also advisable to unplug any sensitive equipment plugged into the power circuit. This includes answer phones, TV and associated equipment and CH boilers etc..

If anything should happen to the phone lines, poles down, manholes flooded etc, then it is up to the provider to fix them, no costs will fall on you. If however your modem is fried due to lightning you may be asked to pay for its replacement as you have not taken proper precautions.

If the weather reports are correct, then parts of England and Wales are in for a torrid time and remember, its no use blaming Sky, they are not responsible for the weather. No doubt, should your services go down, they will be returned as soon as possible.

[Scubbie]

Just to expand on what Tom has written...

BTO are responsible for everything from the telephone exchange to the BTO Modem (including the Modem). Sky would be responsible for the router provided that it is within the first 12 months.

Whilst my week links are in the Ethernet cabling, telephone cable and the feed from my Sky dish, everything else is plugged into a surge protected socket (the terrestrial aerial is in my loft). You can get surge protection for the Ethernet connections. With this in mind, you may wish to insert something between the BTO Modem and the Sky router. This should protect everything on your network, provided that everything else is suitably protected too.