SFMO Issues Guidance on Power Reconnection Following Winter Storm Fern

NASHVILLE – As recovery from the devastation of Winter Storm Fern continues, the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) is committed to assisting local power companies and municipalities in helping safely restore power to homes in storm-affected areas. 

Unprecedented ice, snow, and prolonged below-zero temperatures caused by Winter Storm Fern downed trees, power poles, and powerlines. To date, the storm has caused 23 known fatalities, caused widespread damage to properties, and left thousands of Tennesseans without power.  

In an effort to assist Tennesseans as they recover from this disaster, the SFMO is sharing guidance about the options that property owners/customers have for getting the necessary electrical inspections needed to restore power.  

Option 1: 

Follow the normal permitting route and purchase a permit. The power provider may immediately restore power so long as an inspection by the SFMO is conducted within seven (7) days. This is at the discretion of the local power provider. Consumers should contact their local power provider to determine whether this is an option. 

Option 2:

Request a safety inspection from the SFMO, which will be scheduled as soon as possible. The inspection will be completed at no cost to the property owner/customer. If the safety inspection fails and additional work is required before power can be restored, the customer will have to purchase a permit and make the necessary corrections. If no corrections are required, the power can be immediately restored. 

Exempt Jurisdictions:

In jurisdictions where the local government representatives conduct inspections, the property owner/customer will need to contact his or her local government for guidance. Please note: All state electrical inspectors will be clearly identified by their uniforms.  

To help consumers avoid a potentially hazardous electrical shock as well as fire hazards, the SFMO shares the following electrical safety tips: 

• After electricity has been restored, reconnect appliances and other electronics with caution. Ensure that the appliance did not suffer storm-related damage and that the power cord is not frayed. 
• Never plug major appliances (like stoves, refrigerators, washers, or dryers) into an extension cord or power strip. 
• Always have electrical work completed by a qualified electrician. 

Call an electrician and cut your power at the breaker if: 

• A receptacle is frequently blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. 
• You receive a tingling feeling when you touch an appliance. 
• You notice discolored or warm wall outlets. 
• You sense a burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance. 
• You see sparks coming from an outlet. 
• You notice flickering or dimming lights. 

Homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of replacing appliances and other personal belongings and property that has been damaged.  Questions? TDCI has shared disaster recovery tips including tips on filing insurance claims, heating safety, and hiring contractors.  

For more information on the SFMO’s Electrical, Residential, and Marina section, visit our website. 

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