Real power is very exciting to most people, but real power doesn't come from the wall sockets in your home unless you have a real thunderstorm.  When that happens, delicate computer systems and related hardware can receive harmful excessive current that turns your $1,000 desktop into a nice door stop.  It's very easy to avoid this by using surge suppressors to keep your systems form harm.  Don't forget about telephone and cable outlets, they can pass lightning strikes to your equipment just as easily.  The best recommendation is to unplug any equipment during a thunderstorm.  http://www.theiowachannel.com/weather/3618811/detail.html tells you how more than just your computer may be at risk.