TN Fire Marshal Launches First Annual Fire Prevention Video Contest

NASHVILLE – Lights. Camera. Fire Prevention! The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) invites Tennesseans to take a seat in the director’s chair and create a short video to draw awareness to the importance of fire safety. Through its inaugural Fire Prevention Video Contest, the SFMO hopes to reach residents of all ages with life-saving messages using two new jingles that emphasize the necessity of smoke alarms and the major role a closed door can play in reducing fire damage.

“The Tennessee fire service has made extraordinary efforts in lowering our state’s fire mortality rate, but we need to find new, innovative approaches to keep up the momentum and promote fire prevention education,” said State Fire Marshal and Commerce & Insurance Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak. “We are challenging Tennesseans to use their creativity to produce a video that can help convey crucial fire safety messages to their fellow citizens in an exciting and effective way.”

The contest kicked off, Friday, July 1, and features prizes donated by Kidde that include a $500 check, a Kidde RemoteLync Home Monitoring Device, and a Kidde RemoteLync Wi-Fi Camera.
Contest participants are asked to create a one-minute video that illustrates the themes found in one or both of the SFMO’s new fire safety jingles. The jingles were written specifically for the SFMO’s promotion by Emmy®-award winning Farmer Jason, veteran producer Brad Jones, and Addy-award winning songwriter Michael Visconti.

The contest is open to Tennessee residents of all ages, however participants 18 years and younger must submit written parental approval. Both individuals and groups (including fire departments) are eligible to submit entries. The videos must explore the fire safety topics featured in the jingles, be well researched, not demonstrate risky or unsafe behavior, and be both educational and entertaining.

“Education is the key to fire prevention,” said Gary West, Deputy Commissioner for Fire Prevention. “We encourage fire departments and teachers to participate in the contest and get their classrooms and communities involved in spreading fire safety awareness. We’re excited to put Tennessee’s creative skills to the test and look forward to seeing some great videos!”
Entries must be submitted by Sept. 30, 2016 to be considered for prizes. Winners will be announced the week of October 9th in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week.

For more information on the contest details, an entry form, eligibility and official rules, visit https://tn.gov/commerce/article/SFMO-Video-Contest.

About the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance:

TDCI is charged with protecting the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Our divisions include the Athletic Commission, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Corrections Institute, Emergency Communications Board, Fire Prevention, Insurance, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Peace Officers Standards and Training, Regulatory Boards, Securities, and TennCare Oversight.

To check a license of a professional regulated by the Department, go to http://verify.tn.gov/.