Conclusion

The best way to conclude is to quote P.G. Laurent, who did much to revive interest in lightning research in France after the war:

"Lightning current is an electrical current like any other, flowing according to the ordinary laws of electrotechnology, whose behavior can be predicted insofar as the system configuration lends itself to calculation, and which can be studied at reduced voltage by means of surge generators.

We believe that all practical means of protection against lightning can be reduced to a single one: providing the current with as direct a conductive path as possible, and interconnecting all nearby metal elements to it. Lightning is an important character who cannot be resisted without danger, but who allows herself to be directed easily enough when we bend to her wishes. It has millions of volts at its disposal to shatter...