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Home fire protection equipment

November 29, 2013adminSafetyhome improvement, home tools, Safety2 Comments

Many people don’t even think about fire safety at home. But the bad news is that there are many injuries and deaths caused by fire at people’s homes. Most of the accidents start from the kitchen as a result of unattended cooking. There are also many fatal cases caused by forgotten burning cigarettes or heating equipment. The reasons could be many but what is important is to start thinking about fire safety at home and not let such awful accidents happen. There are ways to protect your home and family from fire, considering fire equipment that will help you feel safer at home.

Smoke Detectors

These little tools are more important that you can imagine. They have been saving thousands of people every year. It’s essential that there are smoke detectors in every house or apartment, at least one per floor or preferably one in every room. Make sure the detector in the kitchen is not attached to the ceiling right over the oven and that you turn your kitchen extractor on when you cook. Otherwise the smoke detector might be triggered for no reason.

Batteries of smoke detectors run out pretty fast sometimes, so make sure you check and change them regularly.

Fire extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher at home is not compulsory but it’s surely recommended. It’s important to know in advance how to work with it, otherwise you might end up trying to handle both a fire extinguisher and panic at the same time, which can’t normally result well. Make sure it’s in a proper shape and good to use.

There are different types of fire extinguishers, so when you buy one, make sure it’s appropriate. For example, you don’t want to use a water fire extinguisher on a fire caused by electrical items. The most suitable ones for domestic use are foam or powder extinguishers because they cover all the classes of fire danger.

Fire Plan

It’s necessary for every home to have a fire plan. Every member of the family should know how to get everyone out of the house in case of a fire. A fire plan should be practiced every once in a while in order to make sure everyone can handle a terrible situation like this.

First Aid Kit

Not just in case of a fire, a first aid kit is more than compulsory to have at home. You might need one in multiple situations, so it’s necessary to have at least one kit at home. A first aid kit won’t prevent fire but it’s an important part of an escape plan in case there is a huge fire and you have to leave your house or apartment. Somebody might need help and a first aid kit might be essential at some point.

Home Sprinkler System

These days such systems have become less expensive, which makes them easier to afford. It’s a good idea to have an automatic home sprinkler system that sprays water in case of a fire and thus keeps you and your family safe and calm. This is perhaps the most effective way to protect your home from fire.

There are many ways to protect your home from fire, providing your house or apartment with the right fire safety equipment. Taking care of this equipment is essential too, since it would be useless if it doesn’t work properly at the moment you need it the most. Having the proper equipment and also being cautious about your safety by making sure you don’t forget your home appliances are on and you don’t leave burning cigarettes, the risk decreases significantly.

Author Bio: July Minor knows a lot about home improvement. With her job at http://www.shinylondon.co.uk/deep-cleaning-earls-court-sw5/ she has a lot to share with her readers.

Be safe and implement these tips today! – Gary B.

Updating Your Home for Extreme Weather Conditions

July 23, 2013adminhome improvement, Safetyhome improvement, home repairs, Safety1 Comment

With all the news about powerful hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, unstoppable tornadoes, destructive hails, and damaging strong winds and gusts, it’s not unreasonable to start thinking about protecting your home from storm damage. You can’t just sit and do nothing about unpredictable weather disturbances that are yet to come. Every state in the U.S. is at risk of severe weather conditions, with some experiencing more of such undesirable conditions than others. It is therefore important to be prepared and to do something to make your home more resistant to extreme weather conditions.

Enhancing Structural Integrity

This sort of sounds like you are preparing for war: a war against nature’s wrath. It is a basic step to prepare the structural integrity of your home to withstand strong winds and other weather-related damages. Enhancing your home’s structural integrity primarily covers three aspects: water flow control, irrigation, and window integrity.

Roofs should be made ready to handle destructive gusts and hails. If there are small cracks or leaks, they should be immediately repaired. Roofs are estimated to have a typical life span of 25 years. If your roof is older than this, it is advisable to have it replaced. Additionally, based on a New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) research, it is better to have roofs with multiple slopes, as they do better in withstanding strong winds.

When it comes to home water flow control, it is advised to have backflow valves installed on toilets and sinks to prevent floodwater from getting into the house. Likewise, it is advisable to have waterproof veneers around a house to keep even shallow floodwater from seeping in. This also prevents moisture and the possibility of mold and mildew infestation.

Windows should also be given attention. They need to be replaced if they are already old and dilapidated. Having window shutters is recommended. Additionally, windows have to be checked to make sure that they can provide full insulation during the winter. If windows have cracks or holes in them, they will make it difficult for a home heating system to maintain the desired temperature. This can mean high electricity or heater fuel costs.

Building a Storm and Tornado Shelter

If you are in a place that is frequently struck by tornadoes and powerful hurricanes, having a storm and tornado shelter is a must. It is becoming increasingly important to build this section in every house. It is not a very expensive investment, but it is bound to provide the right kind of protection against destructive weather phenomena. It does not have to be an underground room. It only has to be a well-reinforced structure that can provide temporary shelter against tornadoes and destructive winds that are strong enough to uproot trees and tear down homes.

Power Supply

As you upgrade your home, it helps to integrate an emergency power supply system you can easily tap into. This power supply system can be a set of high capacity batteries (like automotive batteries) or a generator. You will need this emergency power backup to keep essential electronic devices running when there is power outage. Losing your heater during a freezing winter, for example, can be disastrous. Likewise, you would need a way to call for help in case you are trapped inside your home. You will need emergency power supply to run your vital electronic devices.

It is always better to be prepared. However, you shouldn’t limit your focus to emergency kits and basic preparedness. It is also important to make your home more resistant to severe weather conditions since your home is your primary form of protection against the unpredictable destructive forces of nature.

Byline: Logan Wheeler is a DIY-minded home improvement author currently residing in Houston, Texas. He enjoys sharing his tips on construction and plumbing in Houston with an online audience.

Most Important Things to Repair & Replace on a House

July 16, 2013adminhome improvement, Safetyhome improvement, home repairs, Safety2 Comments

At one point or another, your home will need to undergo some repairs. No matter how much you try to prevent wear and tear, there is always something that will break down and require repairs. By undertaking timely repairs, you maintain the value of your home and also ensure that it is a safe environment for your family to live in. Here are some of the items that you need to keep an eye on since they are the ones that usually experience the most wear and tear.

Air Conditioning System

You should keep an eye on your air conditioning system to ensure that it is clean and will not blow spores and other aerial contaminants into the house. A system that has a lot of dust and motes will cause your family a lot of discomfort. Regular cleaning of this system will prevent the growth of mold and will increase its efficiency.

Peeling Paint

This can be quite an eyesore, and a child can inhale or swallow some of the paint chips. Peeling paint is brought about by the presence of moisture in the walls, so you should first ensure that you have found the source of the leak and fix it before you apply any more paint.

Flickering Lights

At one point or another, you will find a light fixture that starts flickering. This can be annoying, but it can also be an indication of a serious problem. Usually there is a loose connection or something else easily repaired, but to be safe you should call an electrician.

Breezy Doors and Windows

Since they are constantly being opened and shut, doors and windows tend to become lose at their hinges. Once this happens, there will be a lot of space for the breeze to get in and out of the house. You should identify the doors and windows that have this problem and have them refitted so they stop letting in gusts of air.

Broken Glass and Screen

Any home with children will have a broken window or torn screen at one time or another. If you want less maintenance costs on the windows, you should choose metal frame windows, which are easily slotted into the frame, rather than wood frame windows that will require the use of putty. Torn screens may require a complete replacement, since repairing them may not be that effective.

Roof Damage

Due to the exposure of the roof to the elements, you will have to repair it at one point or another. Heavy rain or snow can lead to leaks, and you must repair these or moisture will enter the home and this could lead to the growth of mold in the walls. You should hire a contractor to complete the repairs for you since it can be dangerous.

These are some of the home repairs that occur commonly in most homes and regular inspection and maintenance of your home will ensure the condition and value of your home.

This article was contributed by Chase Roberts, home & garden connoisseur, personal decorator, and all-around handyman. If you are a Texas resident looking to do some home improvements of your own, Chase recommends Houston Window Experts, offering affordable expert advice and innovative window installation. Check them out at www.houstonwindowexperts.com/replacement-windows-houston/.

Burglary by the Numbers

June 22, 2013adminSafetySafetyLeave a comment

Infographic courtesy of: http://www.supercircuits.com/

We stumbled upon this infographic and were shocked by the number of burglaries that occur in the United States. We hope you will find it helpful and, hopefully, prevent this from happening to you. Knowledge is Power!

Everybody Hurts: The Most Common Household Injuries

June 20, 2013adminSafetyhome improvement, SafetyLeave a comment

While we think of our homes as a place of safety and comfort, there are some common household injuries that you or your family may experience at some point. Below is a list of some of the most common household injuries, what you can keep on hand to treat them, and some preventive measures you can take to avoid them.

Cutting Yourself While Chopping Vegetables

This is an injury most of us are familiar with. If you do cut your hand in the kitchen, run cold water over your cut, apply pressure with a clean dry bandage and raise your hand above heart level until the bleeding stops. Keep the wound covered and change the bandage daily. You can use an antibacterial ointment to aid healing time and to prevent infection. If the bleeding will not stop or your cut is deep, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Follow the steps below to reduce your risk of a kitchen cutting mishap:

–Only cut on a flat, dry, sturdy surface; ideally a cutting board.

–Cut away from your body, not toward it.

–Chop vegetables with your fingers curled under instead of in the direct line of cutting.

–Do not try to cut frozen foods.

–Do not use knives for things you can use scissors for—like opening a tightly sealed package.

–If you drop your knife accidentally do not try to catch it, instead take a large step backward.

–Sharpen your knives regularly as dull knives cause more injuries.

Burns

Burns are most common while cooking in the kitchen or from the faucet in the bathroom. If you or a loved one has burned themselves immediately submerge the affected area under cold water or run it under cold water. If you burn your face and the area blisters or the cold water does not adequately reduce the pain after a few minutes, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Follow the steps below to reduce your risk of a burn:

–Always use real oven mitts when taking things in and out of the oven or when working with a hot pot or pan. Napkins, dishtowels, and aprons are not oven mitts.

–Avoid the temptation to “check” or move things with your fingers. Instead, use kitchen tongs designed for heat.

–When taking the lid off an item that has been on the stove or in the oven, make sure your face and body are not in the direct line of its steam and heat.

–Make sure the handles of your pots, pans, and utensils are not left exposed to heat. If they are, use your oven mitts.

–When frying things in grease use tongs and wear long, but not loose or bulky, sleeved shirts.

–Wait until hot foods have sufficiently cooled prior to serving such as coffee, tea, and soups.

–Install anti-scald devices on the faucets that your young children can reach.

–Reduce the temperature of your water heater to below 120 degrees.

Falls

Falls are the leading cause of fatal home injuries. Most falls happen while in the bathroom where it is wet and slippery. If you fall in the bathroom, carefully get up if you are able. If you feel like it is unsafe to move, call for help or bang on the wall or floor to attract someone’s attention. Call 911 if it is not safe for someone who has fallen to get up independently—don’t hurt yourself attempting to help someone up. Follow the steps below to reduce your risk of a fall in the bathroom:

–Place slip resistant mats inside your bathtub, even if it does not “feel” slippery to you. When soap suds combine with water that can change in an instant.

–Place a bathmat with a rubberized bottom outside of your bathtub. This will reduce your chance of slipping by having something absorbent and rubberized to step onto.

–Add grab bars to your bathtub. While this may not be the most attractive addition it is a highly recommended bathroom safety feature.

It is wise to keep a first aid kit in your home so that you are prepared for any in-home injuries that unexpectedly arise. Being properly prepared can be the difference between a minor injury and a major injury.

This article was contributed by Samantha Greenbaum, health nut, marathon runner and weekend backpacker. For those in the Pearland, TX area looking for quick, efficient urgent care, Samantha suggests checking out Prime Urgent Care.

A Guide To Sound Testing Insulation

June 11, 2013adminhome improvement, Safetyhome improvement, Safety1 Comment

Sound insulation testing is required on all house conversions or New Build developments where two or more dwellings are connected either by a party wall or party floor.

The testing needs to be carried out by an Independent Acoustic Consultancy with either A.N.C or UKAS Accreditation. Without this Accreditation, any test report produced could be refused by the Local Authority Building Control as invalid, meaning that the properties will need to be re-tested at additional cost to the developer.

Not all dwellings need to be tested however. In fact, it is the party floor or party wall that is tested; not the dwelling as such. One set of tests is required for every 10 dwellings. A set of tests would normally consist of:

• Two Airborne Wall Tests
• Two Airborne Floor Tests
• Two Impact Floor Tests

Obviously, party walls can only be tested if the dwellings are connected horizontally. Additionally, for any walls or floors to be tested you need to have habitable rooms on both sides of the partition. The test rooms also need to be a minimum of 25mᶟ in volume.

Where the residential unit is above a commercial unit, then Impact Tests are not required as the noise risk is perceived to be from the commercial unit into the flat; not the other way round.

Where the commercial unit is perceived to generate a larger amount of noise such as a music shop, public house or night club, then an increased level of acoustic performance is deemed necessary. This would normally be controlled by the Planning Department or Building Control Department.

Please see below for a range of sound insulation testing scenarios:

3 storey building

• Two Airborne Floor Tests
• Two Impact Floor Tests

2 storey building

• Two Airborne Floor Tests
• Two Impact Floor Tests

1 storey building

• No tests required

Connecting 1 storey buildings

• Two Airborne Wall Tests
• No Floor Tests

Connecting 2 storey buildings

• Two Airborne Floor Tests
• Two Impact Floor Tests
• Two Airborne Wall Tests

Connecting 8 storey buildings

• Four Airborne Floor Tests
• Four Impact Floor Tests
• Four Airborne Wall Tests

Sound testing is a fundamental part of home improvement and understanding the basics can allow you to improve your home.

Guest Post By:
Louise Orr

Choosing the Best Home Insurance

June 7, 2013adminSafetySafety20 Comments

I’m Covered…Right?

Homeowner’s insurance provides people with protection against the unexpected. You never know what may happen, which is why it is best to always be prepared. The right insurance policy will protect you from basic incidents, but what about damage related to flooding, fires, and earthquakes? Many homeowners do not thoroughly read through their policy to find out what they are actually paying for. Don’t be surprised if an insurance company rejects your infestation claims, such as termites, as it may be considered an “additional coverage” option.

Mortgage Loan Requirements

If you have a mortgage loan, you are usually required to obtain insurance. Some mortgage providers will work the policy right into your loan while others may ask you to find the insurance independently. Comparing quotes and the policy limitations is vital to selecting the best insurance provider. If you have a vehicle, contact your insurance provider and find out if they can offer you a bundle plan. This is a great way to save on the monthly premiums you will need to pay. The costs you pay in monthly premiums are based on the following criteria:

• Claim history
• Education level
• Financial history
• Job stability
• Age
• Location

While the cheapest plan may be the best financial decision on a monthly basis, there is a good chance it can come back to haunt you. Consider how much money you will need to spend if your home is damaged from a natural disaster. If you failed to pay the extra $5-$9 a month for earthquake coverage, you could lose your home and all your belongings. Always plan for the future when selecting insurance.

What Does My Policy Cover?

Most homeowners assume that insurance companies will pay for flood damage. The problem is that there is a fine line in each contract. Your plan may cover flooding from a natural disaster, but it may not cover flooding due to a broken pipe inside the home. However, in most cases separate flood insurance is required for coverage. Fire damage is another thing that you must research. Insurance plans usually will not pay for expenses related to fire damage due to negligence. Therefore, if you accidentally leave your curling iron on and it starts a fire, you will need to assume the costs.

Some homeowners do not realize that liability coverage is part of their insurance plan. A person who falls or is injured on your property can sue you for damages. Depending on your plan, the insurance company may step in and try to settle the case. In most situations, they will pay for medical expenses related to the injury. Make sure you are buying enough liability coverage if you have pets or a home that could be considered dangerous (due to an icy porch, etc.).

Did you know that in the event of a fire or other emergency the insurance company will pay for a hotel room? This is another area where you must read the policy as it may state that the company will only pay for a specific number of days during which your home is deemed “unlivable.”

What You Need To Know

When searching for an insurance company, find out what it would cost to replace your home. Once you know this cost, get an estimate of the assets and belongings inside the home. Now, take this figure and add $10,000-$15,000 to get the ideal coverage limit for your home. It is important to document everything that you are listing in the homeowner’s insurance policy. This will guarantee replacement or financial compensation for items that are damaged.

Homeowner’s insurance is vital for your family in the event of an emergency. Take the time to plan ahead and prepare your family for a disaster. Keep enough money in your bank account to pay the deductible and allow the insurance company to take care of fixing your home.

Guest Post By:

This article was contributed by Kelly Springwell, DIY-er, house flipper and safety nut. Kelly knows disaster can strike your home in the least expected ways, which is why she recommends New England Termite Control, quick and affordable pest control services.

Tips To Prepare For Power Outages

April 22, 2013adminSafetySafetyLeave a comment

Storms have been packing big punches in recent years. While the debate about the cause might rage on, so do the natural elements that wreak havoc on private homes and public infrastructure. As has been seen in recent years, the aging of the American power grid has resulted in extended power outages – and that increasingly seems that this will be the new norm. However, going without power for long periods of time is non-negotiable for many Americans.

Waiting out a power failure is only an option for so long – and for many people, it’s not an option at all. When power goes out, preparedness goes a long way. As a new season of storms looms on the horizon, consider these tips to keep your household both safe and functional, whatever the weather.

* Generate your own power. A portable generator can provide safety and comfort in both long- and shorter-term power outages. As an alternative energy source, it gives you the option to keep your household running far more smoothly than it would with no power at all. Most will power your refrigerator, fans, space heaters, room air conditioners, lights, TVs and more during an outage, with surprisingly quiet and easy operation.

* Invert for an alternative power source. Inverters are another handy, portable option for added power. They convert power from sources like batteries into AC current, which can be used to power a wide array of necessities, from medical devices to phone chargers and beyond.

* Be charged up. If you plan on using an inverter, be sure to keep batteries charged during stormy seasons. Having battery chargers on hand will help you be prepared to get through the aftermath of a power-disrupting storm.

* Keep your home supplied. A stock of candles, batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, prescription medicines and other helpful items like duct tape and a digital thermometer will serve you well in a short-term outage, but will also be essential if it lasts longer.

* Remember food and water safety. Because tap water might become unsafe to drink, a stock of bottled water is a critical supply. If power is out for more than two hours, it’s time to start thinking about food safety. Remember that meat, poultry, fish, and eggs need to be refrigerated at or below 40 F, and that frozen food has to be kept at or below 0 F to remain safe to eat, according to the USDA.

When storms strike, it can result in chaos, no matter where you live. By taking steps to prepare ahead of time, you’ll be able to cope with power outages and get life back to normal sooner than you might have expected.

What To Do (And What Not to Do) if you Find Asbestos in Your Home

April 18, 2013Amy ElliottDIY Projects, SafetyDIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tips, SafetyLeave a comment

Asbestos is a frightening word for a lot of people because we are all too aware of the dangerous consequences to our health that can be caused by asbestos exposure. Yet, many of us may not be aware that asbestos is present in the home and needs to be taken into consideration when doing any DIY or remodeling tasks. Here is the low-down on what to do and what not to do if you find asbestos in your home.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a building material that was used in the construction of homes prior to 1980. It was often used in ceilings, air ducts, insulation, flooring and roofing materials. This naturally occurring mineral fibre was found to cause severe health problems if the spores were inhaled and so it is no longer used in the construction of buildings. The problem is that it isn’t easy to tell whether a material contains asbestos or not so anyone undertaking DIY projects in the home need to proceed with caution.

Dispelling the myths

The fact is many homes contain asbestos in their construction materials. It is easy to become alarmed at the suggestion your home may contain asbestos but there is often confusion and misunderstanding about this widely-feared material.

Provided that the asbestos is left intact and untouched and it remains in a good condition, then it should not do you any harm. It is only when the asbestos is damaged or disturbed that harmful asbestos spores may be inadvertently released and inhaled.

If you are unsure whether your home contains asbestos, then you’ll need to get a trained professional in who can undertake sample analysis for you. Never attempt to try and do this yourself as you may only disturb, damage or release the dangerous asbestos spores.

What if you find asbestos in your home?

Do not touch the asbestos – leave it alone. If you are undertaking any DIY activities in that area proceed with caution to ensure you don’t disturb it. Limit access to the area.

Don’t saw or drill holes into asbestos-containing materials and never dust or sweep debris that may contain asbestos. Don’t walk this material all over the house as you are increasing the proliferation of the spores. Instead, clean any offending areas with a wet mop.

If your flooring contains asbestos, then don’t use a power stripper on it or try to sand it. If you need flooring replaced that contains asbestos, then install new floor covering over it.

What if the asbestos is damaged?

Damaged asbestos requires professional intervention so always leave it to the experts. If you suspect asbestos damage, then get on it right away. It will either need repairing or removing. Repairing usually involves sealing or covering the asbestos. Removal is usually the last option as it’s a complex procedure but may be necessary if you are planning a major remodeling project to your home.

If you are unsure about whether your home has asbestos or whether it may be damaged and likely to cause harm, always consult a professional. It can never hurt to seek professional advice and be sure rather than take the risk of damaging your and your family’s health.

Guest Post By:

Article written by A. Elliott, a writer with an interest in interior design and home improvement, this article was written for Ashbrook Roofing, specialists in roofing supplies.

Mold growth in your home

April 6, 2013adminBasement renovation, Safetybasement, basement renovation, home improvement, remodeling tips, Safety1 Comment

Take control and mitigate mold growth in your home

Damp, dark areas of the home, such as an unfinished basement, can often be trouble spots for homeowners hoping to increase their living space. Left unfinished, these areas of the home can potentially suffer significant damage, be prone to flooding or develop mold. When it comes to home improvement, homeowners are wise to consider the affects of moisture and mold buildup and how they can be combated.

Mold growth, usually a result of excess moisture, also can be detrimental to one’s health. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that mold can survive in almost any conditions, and can cause visual, respiratory and even skin problems. Mold growth can also contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Homeowners looking to turn an unfinished basement into a liveable space or take control of mold growth can help protect their home from unexpected expenses later on, and also add value to their home. There are several techniques to control moisture penetrating their home. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency suggests homeowners consider techniques that manage water outside the foundation walls, ensure that the home is properly ventilated with exhaust fans in at least each bathroom and the kitchen, and size the home’s air conditioning unit correctly. Homeowners are also recommended to use construction techniques that can help control water, air movement, vapor diffusion as well as condensation.

More often than not, mold is found in homes that do not have adequate insulation. As moisture builds up within walls, the interior of the walls can start to slowly rot. This rot can emit a foul smell and eventually reduce the stability and quality of the home. Homeowners who want to address moisture and mold growth should consider a complete solution that halts future opportunities for mold growth and prevents potential costly repairs in the future.

Using a modern insulation material such as spray foam insulation is one solution that can assist. As a vapor-permeable material, spray foam insulation allows moisture to travel through it, enabling it to dry completely. Additionally, spray foam insulation is not considered a food source for mold, thereby quashing the probability of further mold growth. Properly insulated wall cavities and crawl spaces control moisture, minimize air leakage, save on energy bills as well as improve occupant comfort.

Getting to the root of mold issues is critical for any homeowner looking to add investment value to their home. A material like spray foam insulation can be applied within seconds to the walls, ceiling and floors of a basement to plug any cracks or gaps to deliver immediate results.

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