Conclusion

 

Certainly do not take the ‘do nothing’ approach.

 

1. At minimum, unplug everything when not in use or when a storm is imminent.
2. For a little cost, purchase some surge protectors for both mains and telephone connections.
3. And finally for a good all round protection, purchase a good UPS with surge protection included.

 

I personally use, and have done for many years, UPS from APC. These have proven to me to be exceptionally good and reliable. Currently I have a number of the APC Back-UPS ES 700VA 230V which have been protecting my systems. They are also a nice small unit that can easily sit under a desk or somewhere discrete - but note: do not box them in as they need general air flow (don’t we all in the hot weather !)