This afternoon at approximately 1:30 pm the fire alarm at HQ was set off. We cleared the building immediately. The cause of the alarm was determined to be an unusual amount of smoke created by a staffer using the metal lathe in the shop off the Lab. The Newington Fire Dept. responded as did one police cruiser. They were able to confirm our opinion of the source in short order and the staff was allowed back in the building. The alarm system worked as it should and the staff responded appropriately. If you hear of any issues with HQ lack of response between about 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm, this is the reason. 73, Barry J. Shelley Chief Financial Officer ARRL, Inc-The National Association for Amateur Radio(tm) 225 Main St. Newington, CT 06111 Phone: (860) 594-0212