Did you feel it?

At around 1740 hours this evening, several Rowley residents (and firefighters) reported feeling a rumble. Various people described it as a tree falling, a plow passing (it is snowing, after all,) or a distant explosion. One resident called 911 to report he thought a building had collapsed.

Rowley police and firefighters were dispatched to check the area, but found nothing. At the same time, authorities in Groveland, West Newbury, and Newburyport were investigating similar reports.

Reports are now coming in that a seismograph in Amesbury registered a seismic event. So where were you for the Big Earthquake of Christmas 2008, and did you feel it?

Update: At 2020 hours we received word from the MA Emergency Management Agency confirming a 1.8 magnitude earthquake centered in Haverhill, MA. It's official.

Christmas and Holiday Safety

The Rowley Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season! Please enjoy these tips on Christmas tree and decorating safety.

• Inspect all lights before using. Discard or replace any that show signs of wear or damage.
• Don't overload electrical circuits.
  
• Keep natural Christmas trees properly watered, and keep all decorations away from heat or open flame.
• Use extra caution with candles. Never allow a candle to burn unattended. Place all candles on firm, non- flammable surfaces away from other combustibles.
• And remember, SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE LIVES. While you have the ladder out, why not change those batteries?
  

Holiday Decorating Safety


And for a final chuckle, please enjoy a bit of light-hearted education courtesy of the Fresno (CA) Fire Department: