Dickson Electric System is a public utility serving more than 31,000 customers in five counties, Dickson, Hickman, Cheatham, Houston and Montgomery. The company originated in 1905 and began purchasing power from the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1936. Dickson offers bank drafts, security lights, levelized billing, heat pump loans, energy-right new homes and manufactured home programs and surge protection. The company offers safety lighting for home and business with a DES security light. The company also offers surge protection for the home to protect household appliances and electronic equipment. Dickson markets a product called the Emergency Beacon. It's a clear-glass light bulb installed in the porch light socket and used as a normal light. But in a 911 emergency situation, a double flick of the switch turns the bulb into a flashing beacon that can be seen at night and 125 yards during the day.