Nestled in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, Hendersonville offers a mix of small-town charm and urban convenience. But like much of the region, it’s not immune to nature’s more dramatic side. Thunderstorms are a familiar part of life here, and when weather conditions escalate into a tornado watch, homeowners must spring into action. Tornadoes don’t always strike—but when they do, their effects are sudden and severe. That’s why preparation isn’t just about bottled water and flashlights—it’s also about understanding what to do with your electrical systems.
Electricity can be one of the biggest hazards in a tornado situation. Downed power lines, power surges, and even something as simple as a forgotten plugged-in appliance can cause fires or electrocution. In this blog, we’ll break down the do’s and don’ts of electrical safety during a tornado watch—helping Hendersonville homeowners stay safe, informed, and ready for anything.
Understanding Tornado Watches and Why Electrical Safety Matters
Before diving into the practical tips, let’s clarify what a tornado watch really means. When a tornado watch is issued, it indicates that the atmospheric conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a heads-up to get your emergency plan in place.
Why does this matter for your home’s electrical system? Because in an emergency, electricity becomes both a critical resource and a potential danger. During severe weather events:
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Power outages become more likely.
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Electrical surges can damage sensitive electronics.
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Downed power lines pose electrocution risks.
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Flooding or moisture infiltration can make your home’s electrical system unsafe.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical malfunctions account for over 6% of all residential fires, many of which are weather-related. Being proactive before and during a tornado watch can significantly reduce this risk.
Do: Unplug Unnecessary Appliances and Electronics
The moment a tornado watch is announced, start unplugging non-essential electronics and appliances—especially high-value items like computers, televisions, and gaming consoles. Power surges are common before and after outages, and they can permanently destroy sensitive devices.
Why it matters: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns that electrical surges can cause overheating and even internal fires in electronics. Even a single surge from a lightning strike can cost thousands in damages.
Pro Tip: Invest in surge protectors for your major appliances and consider a whole-house surge protection system if your home is in a tornado-prone area.
Don’t: Assume Your Breaker Box Will Protect Everything
While your breaker box (or electrical panel) is designed to protect your circuits, it isn’t foolproof against the type of sudden voltage spikes that can accompany severe storms.
Many homeowners in Hendersonville mistakenly believe that flipping a breaker or relying on GFCI outlets will prevent damage. While these systems provide some level of protection, they aren’t designed for extreme weather events. Only proper surge protection and disconnection can safeguard your home.
Do: Turn Off the Main Power if You Evacuate
If there’s an evacuation order or if you choose to leave your home during a tornado watch, shutting off the main power is one of the safest decisions you can make. This helps prevent:
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Fires from electrical sparks or arcing wires
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Damage to appliances when power is restored
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Risk to emergency personnel who may enter your home
How to do it: Open your electrical panel and locate the main breaker (usually labeled at the top). Flip it to the “off” position. If you’re unsure, call a licensed electrician like those at Lanham Mechanical Contractors to walk you through the process safely.
Don’t: Use Electrical Equipment in Wet or Flooded Areas
If water has entered your home or basement during a tornado watch or associated storm, do not touch electrical systems or outlets. Water is a powerful conductor, and even a small amount of flooding can make touching an outlet deadly.
According to the CDC, electrocution is one of the top causes of death following natural disasters like tornadoes. Don’t assume something is safe just because it looks dry—let a licensed electrician inspect your system before restoring power.
Do: Prepare Your Home with Backup Power
Power outages in Hendersonville aren’t just an inconvenience—they can leave families vulnerable for hours or even days. One of the smartest investments you can make is a backup generator or battery system.
Benefits of a backup power system:
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Keeps lights and refrigeration running
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Powers essential medical equipment
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Maintains security systems
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Protects your home during prolonged outages
Tip from Lanham Mechanical Contractors: A whole-house generator with automatic transfer switch ensures seamless transitions when the power fails. Plus, it’s safer than running extension cords to portable units.
Don’t: Use Portable Generators Indoors or Near Open Windows
If you’re using a portable generator, it’s critical to follow safety guidelines. NEVER run a generator inside your garage, basement, or home—even with windows open. Carbon monoxide can build up quickly, causing illness or even death.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, portable generators cause an average of 70 carbon monoxide-related deaths per year in the U.S. alone. Always place generators outside, at least 20 feet from doors and windows, and use battery-operated CO detectors in your home as a precaution.
Do: Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection Before Tornado Season
Though tornadoes can strike any time of year, Middle Tennessee sees increased activity in late spring and early summer. That makes now the perfect time to have your home’s electrical system inspected.
A certified electrician from Lanham Mechanical Contractors can:
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Check for faulty wiring
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Inspect grounding and bonding systems
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Ensure your breaker panel meets modern safety codes
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Install whole-house surge protection
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Identify outdated or hazardous components
FEMA recommends that all households in tornado-prone areas conduct a full home hazard inspection annually. This not only protects your property but can also lower your homeowner’s insurance rates.
Don’t: Delay Repairs After the Storm
After the storm passes, your first instinct might be to breathe a sigh of relief—but don’t wait to address electrical damage. The aftermath of a tornado often includes downed lines, damaged panels, and exposed wiring, all of which can be dangerous if not dealt with promptly.
If you notice:
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Burnt smells near outlets
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Flickering lights
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Dead circuits
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Scorch marks or visible damage
…you need to contact a professional right away. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to fires or future outages.
Bonus Tips: Building a Home Electrical Emergency Kit
Every Hendersonville household should have a basic electrical emergency kit on hand. This helps you manage the essentials safely until help arrives.
Here’s what to include:
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Flashlights (not candles) with extra batteries
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Battery-powered radio
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Portable phone chargers or power banks
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Electrical tape and a voltage tester
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Fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (Class C)
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Contact information for Lanham Mechanical Contractors
Keeping these items in a waterproof container and storing it in a known location ensures your family is ready for any storm.
For Electrical Services in Hendersonville, TN, Contact Lanham Mechanical Contractors Today
When tornado watches hit Hendersonville, don’t leave your safety up to chance. Your electrical system is the backbone of your home—but it can also be one of the biggest hazards if not properly managed during severe weather.
Our licensed electricians are local, experienced, and ready to help you prepare for the worst—so you can focus on staying safe and protecting your family.
Call us today to schedule an inspection, ask about backup power options, or get expert help after a storm.
Your safety is our priority—Lanham Mechanical Contractors is here for Hendersonville when the lights go out.
