How do you suppose a nearby (but not direct) lightning strike could damage the tuner in your TV, which was turned on? (i.e. Why is it a good idea to unplug TVs and computers when an electrical storm is very close?)
There's no telling what grounding rod is there, but if it's not connected to your house wiring, you could try. If it is, obviously don't bother.
Look in the hardware store in the conduit section, they use these for 1/2in, 3/4, etc.
