DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Maine Music Society Chorale would like to alert its patrons who received our season brochure last September that the date for its March concert, “A Breath of Mozart,” has changed.

The correct dates are Saturday, March 16, and Sunday, March 17. The times are 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. The location remains the same. See http://www.mainemusicsociety.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

We want to be sure that concertgoers get to these performances the correct dates and times. — Connie, marketing co-chairwoman, Maine Music Society

ANSWER: This is a correction to the information in the March 5 Sun Spots. The performances take place at the Franco Center at 46 Cedar St. at the times above, not the times previously published. Order tickets online or call 333-3386.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have seen the Prepared Hero Fire Blankets on Facebook. Is this something the fire department recommends? It is a type of blanket that can cover a fire and put it out right away. I own an apartment house and would like to know if this is something each apartment should always have on hand. — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: Social media is so good at making us believe we need things! In this case, and after talking with two fire prevention experts, one from the Lewiston Fire Department, and a retired public safety administrator who has decades of fire-fighting experience, I recommend you spend your money elsewhere.

These blankets are recommended for “small to medium” flames only but I was cautioned by both experts I consulted that, although valid in limited instances, the blankets really aren’t effective for grease or propane stove fires and that the videos advertising this item may be misleading.

The very best and safest action you can take if, God forbid, a fire starts in your home is to immediately exit the building, shutting every door you pass through or are near behind you, and calling 911 once you are out and away from the building.

As the owner of an apartment house, of course you have a level of responsibility in keeping your tenants safe. Be sure your building is up to code, that the smoke detectors are in good working order, that you have a sprinkler system if required, and that your tenants know the best way to exit the building in an emergency of any kind.

If you do provide fire extinguishers in individual apartments, be sure they are periodically checked for their expiration dates and replaced when needed.

You can contact Mark at the Fire Prevention office at the Lewiston Fire Department 513-3002, ext. 3601 for assistance with education and information pertaining to fires.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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