Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

The City of Cookeville is planning to have the second largest fireworks display in all of Tennessee at the Putnam County Fairgrounds on Tuesday, July 4. This is a great way to celebrate safely with free fireworks!

Please remember the Highlands Residential Services fireworks policy: “Not to use fireworks in any manner on HRS property and/or premises.” This policy is not just for Independence Day, but year round.

You are responsible for children or non-resident visitors, who are also not allowed to use fireworks on HRS property. All types of fireworks are included, such as: Bottle rockets, Firecrackers, Sparklers, Poppers, etc. In 2011, HRS experienced a fire that started from fireworks, which resulted in three homes being burned, residents displaced and belongings lost. Fire safety is important year round. HRS has had several home fires over the years, and we want you, your family, your belongings and your home to be safe.

Some everyday fire safety tips are…

• If your smoke alarm starts to “chirp” this means the battery is going dead. You must call the office, regardless of the day or time, to have it replaced by our maintenance department. Our afterhours maintenance emergency phone number is (931) 260-6080.
• Do not cover, disconnect, cut off at the panel box or disable your smoke alarm or the battery in any way.
• The storage or use of kerosene, gasoline or other flammable or explosive materials is prohibited. uuAvoid using candles or, if you do, only use jar-type candles and never leave them unattended.
• Do not put anything within three feet of your heat source or your air return system.
• Never overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs or in high traffic areas.
• Never leave food cooking unattended, especially frying. Never leave items sitting on stove burners or stored in the oven. These could accidentally be turned on and ignite items sitting on or in them.