Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting a Homeland Security Hazardous Materials Checkpoint Wednesday, August 9 in Knoxville, Tennessee. In an effort to keep Tennessee roadways safe, the Highway Patrol and several state, federal and local partners will be inspecting trucks that carry hazardous materials or overseas containters. Troopers will be watching out for safety violations involving these hazmat big rigs and taking action to correct any findings.

This checkpoint will be held simultaneously on I-40 Eastbound at the 369 Mile Marker and at the Eastbound side of the Knoxville Scales Complex from 8 a.m. until early evening (approximately 4 p.m.).

Federal, State and Local partners taking part in tomorrow's checkpoint include: The Federal Highway Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, USDA, State Fire Marshall's Office, National Guard, TDOT, TEMA, the Knoxville Police Department, Knox County Sheriff's Department and Knox County EMS.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.