Tidbits

We have received an urgent plea from one of our readers to alert everyone to a common sense type of issue - driving in bad weather. Our reader lives on Route 1, and she says she sees too many drivers making their way through inclement weather with no headlights on. It's not just common sense to put the lights on in bad weather, it's also a state law, she says.

It's not just in the fog or at night - headlights should be on during any kind of "inclement" weather - drizzly days, rainy days, snowy days. Those of us lucky enough to have had a good driver-training teacher remember "defensive driving" - and certainly you're in a better position to defend yourself if people can see you.

Now on to another driving tip. My father, Charles Clough, drove a tractor trailer truck for Merrill Transport at one point in his life, and told me the best place to pull over to the side of the road is near the top of a long hill, so everyone can see you for a good distance.

At last week's selectmen's meeting, Selectman David Nichols made a good suggestion. If the Town Fathers don't want to accept a private road as a town road because of the angle formed at the intersection - but it still meets town specs - maybe there's something that needs to be changed in the town ordinances.

And, since this is Fire Prevention Week, a tip of the hat and our deepest appreciation to firefighters everywhere who help keep us safe. Theirs is a risky and dangerous job, and one which requires a great amount of time and training, as well as a cool head in emergencies.