Well it is a bit warmer than it has been in the last couple of days. It is normal and healthy to have cold winters. It chases away flu bugs and viruses. Our volunteers here in Waltham have been busy cleaning off and flooding the rink in the middle of town. Let us hope that it stays cold enough so the children and adults can enjoy this great activity in the fresh air.

On Saturday night and into Sunday morning we received a fair amount of snow. The snowmobilers and skiers will be happy.

The Waltham Fire Department would like to remind residents of some of the safety concerns associated with wood burning appliances. Wood burning is an effective and traditional method of heating our homes and buildings. However, wood heating does require much more vigilance and effort. Managing a supply of fire wood is labour intensive. Checking, cleaning and maintaining the stove, furnace, and the chimney on a regular bases is absolutely necessary for safe efficient operation. For this reason, cleaning the chimney and smoke pipes once or twice a year is necessary. A creosote fire can be very intense, and if not controlled, can ignite walls and other nearby combustible materials. Be prepared, and follow a schedule of inspections and chimney cleaning before and during the winter heating season. Check your smoke alarms and CO alarms. Battery operated alarms must be checked at least once a year. Alarms that are 10 or more years old must be replaced. Stay warm, stay safe.

Birthday and anniversary wishes are extended to all of those celebrating this coming week.