DEAR SUN SPOTS: I recently bought new smoke and CO2 detectors. Is there a proper way to dispose of my old ones? — Philip, Lewiston
ANSWER: Many brands of these detectors can be sent back to the manufacturer. You should be able to find a toll-free number and mailing address or a website address on the back of the detector. That’s the best action to take. Just take out the batteries first, if applicable.
For example, First Alert, BRK, Family Gard, or Onelink brands are all accepted by First Alert. Here is the link to a customer support form: https://support.firstalert.com/s/contactsupport.
Also, these detectors are considered to be electronics so you could also recycle or dispose of them locally where other electronics are accepted. Check with the recycling facility you use for instructions. You may need to bring the detectors in on a designated hazard waste collection day, depending on the type of detectors you have.
DEAR SUNSPOTS: I’m happy to report that upon my return home on Sunday, I found the Duluth Trading Company package that had been delivered to the wrong address (Dec. 16 Sun Spots). It had been opened, but all the items were there. I’m grateful to the person who received it and did the right thing. — Carol, Mexico
ANSWER: I can’t help but wonder why someone would open a parcel not addressed to them but perhaps their curiosity just got the better of them. I’m glad the goods were returned to you. Case closed.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: You have been so helpful to so many. I think this question has no answer, but you have done wonders before.
Quaker Ridge Road in Leeds/Greene has become a 60 mile per hour speedway and more. The speed limit is 35 mph. I’m just asking, “Where do I begin to try for some safety, or should I just go tilt at a windmill?”
Any suggestions on where to start or not? — No name, no town
ANSWER: I understand completely. We were experiencing something similar in my neighborhood. Our road is narrow with not much in the way of shoulders and we didn’t feel safe walking or biking. A group of us organized and went to the town and the sheriff several times and finally, a temporary speed radar trailer that displayed drivers’ speeds was placed.
The process took nearly two years before speed bumps and other traffic calming measures were installed. We were frustrated by the time it took, but it was worth it.
Organize with neighbors to collectively gather facts and feedback to address the issue, appoint someone to contact the Police Department and Town Office. Let us know what happens.
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