Peabody urges proper house numbering

PEABODY – “If you don’t put your number up, your number could be up,” said Mayor Michael Bonfanti before a crowd at The Torigian Community Life Center.It may sound confusing, but Bonfanti is actually referring to the number of your address.”A lot of people don’t have their numbers up,” he said. “Doing this could save your life.”The Peabody Triad Council, a partnership between senior citizens, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, the Essex County Sheriff’s Department, the Peabody Council on Aging, and local law enforcement and service agencies, have organized a new program to help residents clearly mark their home address in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws.Through its House Numbering Campaign, the Council is handing out fliers and holding events to educate individuals about the importance of properly identifying their homes and businesses.”We’re trying to make sure each house has numbers in the right place, at the right size so police and fire responders can easily find it,” said Marge Carey of the Peabody Council on Aging. “We’re just trying to get more safety to the seniors.”Massachusetts General Law and Peabody’s own zoning by-law require that each building have a street number visible from the street. The numbers must be at least 4 inches in height, reflective, and in block style. They cannot be spelled out and must be in a contrasting color that stands out from the building. They must also be placed near the main entrance, no less than 4 feet and not more than 5 feet above the doorsill.”We need to not only put the numbers up for ourselves and our own sake, but do it for those that you love and care for,” said Bonfanti.Bonfanti said that City Hall will be happy to provide assistance as best they can. There will be a supply of stickers available for those who need them.Any senior requiring assistance may also contact the Social Service Department at the Torigian Community Life Center for help at 978-531-2254.