State Fire Marshal offers tips for Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding Tennesseans to regularly check their homes for hazards that could lead to fires.

“Tennessee occupies an undesirable ranking in the country for fire deaths. Falling asleep while smoking in bed or in a comfortable chair remains a significant cause of fire deaths in Tennessee,” says Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Leslie A. Newman. “If you smoke, make sure your home’s smoke detectors are functioning properly.”

Tennessee residents should avoid other practices in the home that quickly become hazardous:

•keeping space heaters too close to bedding or drapes,
•burning candles or incense near flammable materials,
•using frayed cables, extension cords or holiday lighting sets, overloading wall outlets and surge protectors, and
•improperly storing or disposing of chemicals.

TN Dept. of Safety Urges Motorists to Watch Out for Deer

Autumn marks the start of deer mating season. As a result, the Tennessee Department of Safety cautions that an increase in deer-related crashes is likely during the months of October through December. Motorists are encouraged to be watchful of deer on the move during these months.

“Motorists should always be aware of the likelihood of deer traveling on or around the roadways, no matter what time of year,” said THP Colonel Tracy Trott. “However, it is particularly important to pay attention and stay alert, especially on roads less traveled, during hunting and mating season.”

Motorists should exercise extra caution when not traveling on a major thoroughfare. Between 2005 and 2009, less than 10 percent of deer-related crashes occurred on interstate highways. November – the start of deer-hunting season – is the worst month for deer-related crashes.