Transport a Christmas tree? AAA has these tips for a safe birth!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) – AAA wants to remind Tennesseans transporting Christmas trees to follow these tips!

“Our roads are quite dangerous during the holiday season with increased congestion and winter weather conditions, and that’s without the possibility of flying Christmas trees,” said AAA spokesperson Megan Cooper. “If not properly secured, trees can become dangerous projectiles that create dangerous conditions for all drivers on the road.”

AAA offers the following advice:

• Plan ahead – Make sure you bring strong ropes or ratchet straps, an old blanket, gloves, and the right vehicle.
• Wrap it up and cover it – Have the batch wrapped in a net before loading.
• Trunk first – Place the tree on the roof rack or bed of the truck with the trunk facing the front of the car. If the vehicle does not have a roof rack and is large enough, place the tree inside.
• Secure it – Tie the tree at the bottom, center and top with strong rope or ratchet nylon straps.
• Pull test – Once tied, give the tree several hard tugs from different angles.
• Nice and easy – Drive slowly and, if possible, take secondary roads.

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Santa’s train stops feel especially impactful after Hurricane Helene

There are still many families in East Tennessee suffering from flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in September. That made this year’s Santa Train run extra special for many families in the northeastern part of the state. This special Santa Express has been making an annual run through part of Appalachia for more than 80 years.

-Lelan Statom