Lightning can be a deadly and costly force of nature.

In the first quarter of 2017, severe thunderstorms and convective weather were responsible for a record $5.7 billion in insured losses in the U.S. In 2016, more than $825 million in lightning claims were paid out to more than 100,000 policyholders according to I.I.I.

In 2016 there were 38 lightning deaths in the United States, compared with 26 in 2015 and 2014 according to the National Weather Service.

Threat to life & property

A major threat to life and property is structural fires, which are regularly caused by either a direct lightning strike or because lightning's electricity has surged through a structure's wiring, according to the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI).

As the U.S. experiences roughly 40 million lightning strikes each year, knowing how to protect yourself, your home and your business is critical.

Unfortunately, there are a number of popular myths out there about lightning and thunderstorms, and knowing the facts may prove to be life-saving. Click through the slideshow above to separate fact from fiction, and learn how to best protect yourself and your property in the event of a thunderstorm.

Related: Top 10 states for homeowner lightning claims in 2016