RALEIGH - With the summer lightning season at its peak, Progress Energy officials are urging homeowners to use plug-in surge suppressors to protect expensive electronic equipment such as computers and high-definition televisions. Customers are also urged to consider the installation of a similar device at the home's electric meter or main disconnect.

Using both devices provides layered protection against lightning strikes, which cause about $1 billion in property damage each year, officials at the Raleigh-based utility say. Progress Energy offers both types of surge protectors. To learn more, call (866) 363-9277 or go to www.endzaps.com.

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