For The Vista

According to Tennessee Code sections 55-9-401 — 55-9-406, any motor vehicle traveling on any federal, county, city or town road must use headlights from 1⁄2 hour before sunset to 1⁄2 hour before sunrise in normal conditions.

Tennessee Code also requires drivers to use headlights when visibility is low because of rain, fog, and smoke (Rain is defined in the statutes to include rain, mist, snow, and other forms of precipitation.).

Failure to use headlights during rain or other precipitation is a Class C Misdemeanor under Tennessee State Law.

Safety Tips: Winter Fires

More fires occur during the winter months than at any other time. Fortunately, taking simple precautions can prevent most fires. Follow the safety tips below to help ensure your safety:

Portable Heaters

Put at least three feet of empty space between heaters and everything else.

Vacuum and clean the dust and lint from all heaters.

If the cord gets hot, frayed or cracked, have the heater serviced.

Never use extension cords with portable electric heaters.

Turn off portable heaters when leaving or sleeping.

An adult should always be present when anyone is using a space heater around children.

Make sure your portable electric heater is UL approved and has a tip-over shut off function.

Smoke Alarms/Home Escape Plans

Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and in each bedroom.

Test and vacuum your smoke alarms each month to make sure they are working.

Smoke alarms 10 years old or older need to be replaced with new units.

Prepare by knowing two ways out of every room.

Practice your escape plan with your whole family at least twice a year.

Do not attempt to go back into a burning home.

Woodstove and Fireplace Safety

Have a certified chimney sweep clean and inspect your fireplace.

Place ashes outdoors in a covered metal container at least three feet away from anything that burns.

To prevent flue fires, burn dry, well-seasoned wood.

Always use a fireplace screen made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass. If children are present, use a special child-guard screen.

Generators

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You cannot see or smell it. A generator’s exhaust contains poisonous CO, which can kill you in a matter of minutes. Follow these important generator safety tips:

Never use a portable generator inside. Place portable generators outside only, far away from the home. Keep the generator away from openings t

o the home, including doors, windows, and vents.

Read the label on the generator and the owner’s manual, and follow the instructions.

Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.

Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.

Be sure generator fuel is properly and safely stored.

Always refuel the generator outdoors and away from any ignition sources.

If you choose to have a generator permanently connected to your home’s electrical system, make sure a licensed electrician installs it and be sure to notify your electric company.

Candles

Place candles in sturdy, fireproof candleholders where they cannot be knocked over.

Make sure all candles are out before going to bed or leaving the house.

Keep candles, matches, and lighters out of children’s reach.