Saturday, December 25, 2010

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Bobcat Spotted in the Shores


Provided By Planet Rockwall
The Shores -- Sunday, at 4:45 PM, a Bobcat was seen running across the street on North Lakeshore Drive, near the school, headed towards the wooded area. The Shores Homeowners Association again reminds residents to use CAUTION.
All small animals are game; small dogs and cats. "A cat left out over night is just a 'snack'...Remember Bobcats can climb trees, as well."
It is somewhat unusual the Bobcat is being seen frequently in the daytime. The sightings suggest he lives close by. As long as he has a food source here, he will stay. The best way to get him to move on is to NOT allow food for him. Keep cats inside at night and never leave pet food outside. Do not leave small dogs unattended.
There are over 130 homes in the immediate area - tell your neighbors.
Shores HOA
Rockwall, Texas

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Fire Smart Christmas Tree Tips


Provided By Planet Rockwall
As you decorate your home this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. The following are a few "Fire Smart" tips:
Picking the tree: Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Placing the tree: Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1–2” from the base of the trunk.
Location: Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights. Also, make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
Be sure to add water daily to your tree stand. The first few days are the most important, as your tree will drink a lot of water. 
Lighting the tree Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
FACTS:
• One-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
• Each year, fire departments respond to roughly 260 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. 
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every five of the fires.
Information and Facts by National Fire Protection Agency
NFPA Public Education Division / www.nfpa.org/education