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Archives
08-31-2005
Standing Stone Car Show brings hundreds to the park
Dewain E. Peek/OCN staff
Livingston Fire Department receives grant Livingston Fire Department will use a $71,497 Department of Homeland Security grant to purchase firefighting equipment, according to U.S. Representative Bart Gordon. Homeland Security awarded the grant through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, created by Congress to help underfunded fire departments better serve community residents. "Many communities struggle to maintain fire-protection services," said Gordon, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. "Even though demands on firefighters have increased tremendously over the years, the resources they depend on to provide their life-saving services have not. "That's why Congress initiated the Assistance to Firefighters Program." Livingston Fire Chief Rocky Dial said the department will use the grant to purchase new air packs and turnout gear. The new equipment will allow the department to add firefighters. "We'll be able to add more members and increase our response time," Chief Dial said. Fire departments across the nation will receive about $650 million through the grant program this year. In addition to purchasing firefighting vehicles, the grants also can fund operations and firefighter safety programs.
Safety urged for Labor Day holiday driving By TERRY SCHIAVONE, The summer is winding down, and millions of families across the country will head out this Labor Day weekend to savor their last vacation of the season. Impaired driving is one of America's deadliest and most often committed crimes. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Uniform Crime Report, more than 1.4 million people were arrested in 2003 for driving under the influence.Ê The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that, in that same year, more than 17,000 people died in highway crashes involving alcohol. Studies from NHTSA also show that 97% of Americans view drinking and driving as a threat to their families and themselves, and that is why the national "You Drink & Drive. You Lose." campaign will be in full force through September 5. No warnings, no exceptions, no excuses - law enforcement officers around the country will increase the number of sobriety checkpoints, roving patrols, and undercover officers to ensure that those who drive impaired will be caught and prosecuted.Ê Those found driving while impaired will face significant financial cost, jail time, the loss of driver license, and higher insurance rates. NHTSA offers these tips this holiday weekend: Be responsible and don't drive impaired. If you plan to drink, choose a designated driver before going out. Remember, deadly alcohol-related crashes don't just occur in cars. According to a 2003 NHTSA study, motorcycle operators have the highest incidence of alcohol-related crashes (accounting for 29%). Avoid driving any type of vehicle when impaired. Pickup truck occupants are over-represented in motor vehicle crashes. More than 1,600 pickup truck occupants died in the Southeast last year. Many of those deaths could have been prevented simply by putting on a safety belt and not drinking and driving. Stay on the offense - always buckle up to protect yourself from those driving under the influence. Don't hesitate to report impaired drivers to law enforcement. Keep in mind, impaired driving is no accident, nor
is it a victimless crime. Alcohol, drugs and driving don't mix.
Overton County News
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