Let it snow, let is snow, let is snow!

National Weather Service reports the Winter Weather Advisory remains for the Metropolitan Area (including District of Columbia) until 9:00 PM. Snow accumulation 1 to 3 inches and chance of snow is 100 percent. Expecting to end between 7 to 9:00 PM. Today highs in the upper 20s and tonight in the lower 20s.

The District Department of Transportation reminds drivers to:

*Clear all the snow and ice from your vehicle's windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving.
*Drive with headlights on, clear wiper blades and stay on main roads.
*Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice.

Stay tuned for more snow and ice info.

Alexandria Fire Department Joins “Put a FREEZE on Winter Fires” Campaign

The Alexandria Fire Department has joined with the United States fire Administration (USFA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) who are working together to remind everyone that home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. This is due in part to an increase in cooking and heating fires nationwide. Holiday decorations and winter storms that can interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources also contribute to the increased risk of fire in winter. Winter fires can be prevented! Learn more about maintaining a fire-safe home this winter season at http://alexandriava.gov/fire/info/news_firedisplay.aspx?id=42304

Rights and Responsibilities for Better Communities

Excellent information from Community Association Institute for homeowners and community leaders on their rights and responsibilities. Check out this link!

Alexandria Police Offer Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays are a time when thieves are frequently on the prowl. Here are some safety tips to help keep your home, your car, your possessions and your family safe during the holiday season.
Before you leave home:
• Women should carry their purses close to their body at all times. Men should have their wallet in a front pocket.
• Take only one or two credit cards and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimize your loss if robbed.
• Use caution when posting status updates on social media websites that you won’t be home during the holidays or that you are going to be away from the house shopping.
Staying Safe While Shopping:
• Park in a well lit area as close to the entrance as possible. Lock your car and take your keys with you.
• Place purchases in the trunk of your car so they are out of sight.
• Always remain aware of your surroundings and visually scan the parking lot for suspicious activities or persons.
• Never leave your purse or purchases unattended.
• Avoid dark and/or isolated areas. If unavoidable, ask security to escort you to your vehicle.
• Have your keys in hand so that you are not searching for them once you reach your car.
• As you approach, check around, under and inside your car, to make sure no one is hiding.
• Enter your car and immediately lock the doors behind you.
Keeping Your Home Safe:
• Avoid displaying gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
• Arrange to have packages delivered to a neighbor if you are not home and avoid leaving packages on your doorsteps or porches.
• Dispose of packaging discreetly. Criminals observe discarded product packaging of enticing items and then target you or your home for their next burglary or theft.
• Always lock your doors and windows, even if you are only gone for a few minutes.
Always remember the Police Department is here to serve and protect you. If at any time you observe suspicious activity, please call 703.838.4444 to report the incident.

Recall of Specific GE Profile and GE Monogram Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard

Recall of Specific GE Profile and GE Monogram Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard [Based on Consumer Product Safety Commission News Release, at: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11022.html ] General Electric is recalling GE Profile dishwashers manufactured between July 2003 and December 2005 and GE Monogram dishwashers manufactured between January 2004 and December 2006. The hazard is that water condensation can drip onto the electronic control board, causing a short circuit and resulting in an overheated connector, forming a fire hazard. The units were sold in white, black, bisque, stainless steel and with custom panels. The model and serial numbers are located on the inside on the front left side of the dishwasher tubs. The models and serial numbers involved in the recall are shown at the web site cited above.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled dishwashers, disconnect the electric supply by shutting off the fuse or circuit breaker controlling it and inform all users of the dishwasher about the risk of fire. Contact GE for a free in-home repair or to receive a GE rebate of $200 for the purchase of a new GE Profile dishwasher and a GE rebate of $400 for purchase of a new GE Monogram dishwasher. For additional information, contact GE toll-free at 877 275-6840 from 0800 to 1700 ET, Monday through Friday or visit the company's website at www.geappliances.com/recall