Oh no...you just confirmed my worst fears...
I sure hope you get that mess sorted out.
We had a narrow escape not long ago too...we were awakened by a bolt of lightning that stuck the ground the other side of our neighbors in the middle of the night. My mouth tasted like tin foil...
Now my fear and ignorance is being replaced by a feeling of being foolish. I'd say that surge protector will be included our next trip out.
EDIT...Oops...Steve - you snuck that one in while I was replying. Thanks for that, I can see both arguments for the location after reading here about it. I actually preferr to have it protected inside. I can plug it in for or aft, but may need to make a door for access as my power line cubby is under the fridge. We tend to spend a fair amount of time sightseeing and want things protected.
327RKS