Top 3 Electrical Hazards After a Storm in Smyrna, TN (and How to Avoid Them)
Storm season in Middle Tennessee can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous lightning strikes. While most homeowners in Smyrna, TN are typically prepared for fallen trees and roof damage, the hidden electrical dangers after a storm are often overlooked. Ignoring these hazards can put your home and family at risk.
Downed Power Lines in Smyrna
High winds and branches falling can easily bring down power lines and transformers around Smyrna neighborhoods. These lines could still have power and be energized even if they look harmless to the eye.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Live wires can cause severe injury or even death if they are touched.
- They can also electrify puddles, fences, and metal objects nearby.
What to do:
- Stay at least 30 feet away from any power lines that are down.
- Call Smyrna Utilities or your power company immediately to report it.
- Never attempt to move or drive over a downed line.
How to Recognize Overloaded Circuits
When power is restored after there has been an outage, your home’s electrical system may experience some sudden surges. Having multiple appliances like HVAC units, or sump pumps kick on at the same time, this is even more of a risk. Circuit overloads occur when restored power creates lots of demand from devices simultaneously which can exceed breaker capacity. Understanding load limits can help prevent trips and reduce fire risk.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Power surges can overload circuits, damaging appliances and electronics.
- Overheating wires can spark fires inside walls.
What to do:
- Unplug sensitive electronics before the storm.
- Use surge protectors for computers, TV’s, and appliances.
- If you notice flickering lights or burning smells after power returns, call a licensed Smryan electrician immediately.
Surge protectors divert voltage spikes away from sensitive electronics, absorbing excess energy and safeguarding wiring from transient overloads.
| Device | Protection Level | Typical Use |
| Basic Power Strip | 400 Joules | Single workstation equipment |
| Advanced Wall Unit | 1,000 Joules | Home entertainment systems |
| Whole-House Panel | 10,000 Joules | Entire electrical service |
Water Damaged Wiring in Smyrna
Flooding or heavy rain can seep into basements, crawl spaces or even electrical panels. Water and electricity is not a combination you want to have as it can cause electrocution or long term electrical failures.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Wet wiring and outlets can stay hazardous even after drying.
- Mold and corrosion can make your electrical system weaker over time.
What to do:
- Never enter a flooded area if the power is still on.
- Have a qualified electrician inspect your home’s wiring before flipping breakers back on.
- Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in easy to flood areas for an extra layer of protection.
Stay Safe with Professional Electrical Help in Smyrna
After a storm occurs, safety should always be your top priority. If you think there might be electrical damage around or near your home, don’t take any chances, call a licensed professional.
At Airstream Services, our experienced electricians serve Smyrna and the greater Middle Tennessee area. We provide fast, reliable inspections and repairs to keep your home safe and your family protected.
- Emergency electrical services
- Post storm inspections
- Surge protection and rewiring solutions
Call Today for Expert Electrical Service in Smyrna, TN
Don’t wait until a minor hazard turns into a larger problem. Contact Airstream Services for storm related electrical inspections and repairs. We’re here to keep your home safe through every storm.
