LEWISTON – A Lead-Smart Renovator Course sponsored by the cities of Lewiston and Auburn will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, at the B Street Community Center in Room A. The center is at 57 Birch St.

The course is offered to area contractors, property managers, property maintenance workers and property owners who want to learn how to safely work on renovation projects where lead paint may be a concern.

Topics will include lead background information; lead health effects – adult vs. child, exposure routes; OSHA regulations; safety and equipment and work practices.

“Lead is found in most pre-1978 properties, and renovations are the primary cause of lead dust,” said Yvette Bouttenot, Lewiston’s housing and community development officer.

The course is designed to provide an overview about the dangers of lead and how to take a preventive approach, said Auburn Housing Community Development Coordinator Gail Phoenix.

For further information or to register call Cathy Lekberg at 784-2951, extension 311, at the Lewiston Community Development Office.

Cigarettes spark fire in Rumford

RUMFORD – No one was injured during a blaze at a second-floor apartment on 419 Cumberland St. Monday morning.

Rumford Deputy Fire Chief Ben Byam said Monday afternoon that the apparent improper disposal of cigarettes led to about $3,000 damage to the apartment’s bathroom. The occupant, whose name is not being released at this time, was at home. Rumford police officer Matt Noyes is investigating. He could not be reached for comment.

Fifteen firefighters and three firetrucks from Rumford and Mexico responded to the 8:40 a.m. alarm. Firefighters left the scene in less than an hour, said Byam

The apartment building is owned by Ernest Robichaud of Mexico.

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