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Local companies focus on safety after fatal limo fire

The investigation continues into what caused a deadly limo fire that killed a bride and four others in San Francisco. Meanwhile, this is a busy time for limo co...

The investigation continues into what caused a deadly limo fire that killed a bride and four others in San Francisco.

Meanwhile, this is a busy time for limo companies here in the Quad Cities, with prom season here and wedding season right around the corner.

Local limousine and transportation companies are trying to reassure customers who may be more concerned now with safety.

Those scenes of the limo fire out in California still haunt Rusty Phillips.

"It drives home the whole, our philosophy is, safety first, before bottom line, before anything," said Phillips.

At Act II Transportation in Coal Valley, they perform annual inspections even though - for a limo with an eight-person capacity - they aren't required to do so by the Department of Transportation.

"Anything we can do to increase the safety of the vehicle," he said.

They also equip their limos with fire extinguishers.

Phillips says it's all about peace of mind for the passenger.

"You have to make sure that they feel really safe and completely comfortable because they really don't know what's going on outside of the vehicle."

As a wedding planner who owns Exceptional Events in Moline, Peggy Terrey is a self-described “hired worrier.”

"A story like this tragedy tends to speak to the heart of many brides who are in high anxiety to begin with," said Terrey.

But, she says, when it comes to transportation companies in the Quad Cities, there's no need to be concerned.

"I know these limo companies,” she said. “I know their owners and I know they have a high regard for safety. They have a tremendous record."

Whether it's a wedding or prom, if you still have concerns, Terrey suggests knowing what questions to ask the company.

"Do your homework and make sure you're getting somebody that's reputable."

To check your company, ask for their safety records, claim records and any associated losses.

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