Although specific natural disasters are difficult to predict, no part of the country is immune. The dangers show that careful preparation in home and other building construction is a necessity.

"It’s not a matter of if, only of when an event like this strikes the people of the United States," says Marcia McNutt, director of the U.S. Geological Survey, commenting in USA Today on Chile’s magnitude 8.8 quake. Other hazards present additional risks. For example, six major hurricanes, on average, strike the U.S. mainland every decade, according to the National Hurricane Center, and wide swaths of the country are often subject to wind damage.

"Building codes in the U.S. are designed to reduce death and injuries from natural hazards," says Daniel Cheney, director of codes and product acceptance for iLevel by Weyerhaeuser. "The issue is making sure cities and counties are aware of the risks and have adopted and enforced the latest codes."
One way building codes help protect homes against Mother Nature is by requiring lateral bracing. Walls and other parts of the structure must include materials and construction techniques to dissipate lateral forces from earthquakes and wind events. Such bracing helps prevent the home from collapsing, sliding off its foundation or having walls pushed out of alignment.

Modern home designs frequently make lateral bracing a challenge. "People like high ceilings and lots of windows," says Cheney. "Builders used to have plenty of space to add bracing, but now you see tall or narrow walls with multiple openings. Think of a house like a cardboard box with numerous holes punched in it; it’s just not as strong unless you reinforce it."

To address this problem, manufacturers have developed pre-fabricated "shear panels" as narrow as 12 inches, compared to the 4-foot widths typically required for wall bracing built on site. One such product, the iLevel Shear Brace, is the first to be verified for compliance with the latest building codes (2009 IBC; 2009 IRC) in walls up to 20 feet high or stacked in two-story homes. (For more information on home bracing, visit www.iLevel.com or call (888) 453-8358).

"As you might imagine, getting the bracing right is critical to home safety," adds Cheney. "Pre-fabricated shear panels are subjected to extensive testing and engineering. They really make a difference in the design options for homes. You can have light-filled open spaces with multiple windows that stand strong when the earth shakes or the wind howls."

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Thanks to Steve Norcup for the excellent picture!

Rain hastens rust and wood-rot, and ground freezing and thawing or high winds can affect gate alignment. Gate misalignment – as well as rusty metal hinges and latches – can lead to gates that no longer close securely. These conditions can be dangerous or even deadly if ignored. Weakened or damaged fencing can open up your property to unwanted intruders.

Now’s the time to inspect fencing, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure all are in good working condition.

Selecting the right gate hardware can easily solve most of these problems. Innovative gate hinges and latches by D&D Technologies are made of super strong engineering polymers that will not rust, are adjustable, self-lubricating and include high-grade stainless steel mounting hardware. They require little or no maintenance over the years and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Updating your gates so that they are self-closing and self-latching, improving their security and overall look, can be done in just a few minutes with these unique products. D&D latches feature built-in key locks, which eliminate the hassles and extra cost of a separate padlock or pull-string. The company’s hinges have a built-in self-closing spring that is tension adjustable for different gate weights with a twist of a screwdriver and eliminates those dangerous and unsightly external springs. These products are simple to install, and include easy vertical and horizontal adjustments, which help keep gates properly aligned for secure closing years after the products are installed.

Fences protect children and pets from danger – whether they’re designed to keep toddlers out of swimming pools or to keep children and pets in the yard, away from busy traffic. Properly working gates can also reduce homeowners’ liability.

Even if your fence has been erected primarily to define your property line, it’s ineffective if access gates don’t close or latch properly after opening. When was the last time you checked each gate around your property?

“In our research, we found that when homeowners consider their fencing needs, rusty metal gate hardware that no longer functions properly was their No. 1 concern,” says D&D Technologies’ Senior Vice President Jim Paterson. “Most homeowners are not aware that rust-free and adjustable gate hardware is available.”

If you have a pool or spa, or want to prevent children from opening any gate, D&D’s MagnaLatch is specifically designed for these situations. It meets pool barrier codes and is endorsed by many safety experts.

“Now is a great time to ensure that your fences and gates are functioning properly and are protected from rust, a destructive force that can render gate hardware useless,” says Paterson. “Common gravity latches are inexpensive and function fine when new. However, as soon as rust sets in, these latches no longer close without manual assistance.”

He notes that D&D’s rust-free gate hardware has been sold primarily through the professional fencing industry, but is now available direct to consumers under the Stanley or National Hardware brand through Lowe’s and other hardware retailers.

“For the fencing itself, rust can present greater challenges,” Paterson says. “Steel fences and gates, if not protected with an effective sealant such as powder coating, must be periodically repainted with rust-resistant paint to prevent weather-related damage. Be sure to remove existing rust before painting, and use a rust-preventive primer. For wood fences, use paint specifically designed for fencing.

“Aluminum, vinyl or wood fencing can protect against rust on the fence itself,” Paterson continues, “but the hardware must still be rust-free and adjustable to ensure the gate will be in working order. A quick inspection – and if needed – the minutes spent installing new gate hardware, can help protect your family and property, increasing security and decreasing liability.” For more information, visit www.ddtechglobal.com, e-mail info@ddtechusa.com or call (800) 716-0888, ext. 292.

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According to an October 2009 survey commissioned by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a leading independent safety testing organization, one in five homeowners who are involved in purchasing decisions independently reported they are likely to buy a large household appliance in the new year. That number increased to one in four upon hearing that states may offer cash back for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance during 2010.

“As today’s appliance technology continues to advance, it is now, more than ever, critical to consider safety when purchasing these items,” says Ms. Simin Zhou, vice president and general manager, UL’s Appliances, HVAC/R and Components business unit. “Energy efficiency is an important attribute, but family safety also needs to be part of the decision-making process.”
A 2009 National Fire Protection Association report states that in 2006, U.S. consumers reported approximately 17,700 home fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines, resulting in 15 deaths, 360 injuries and $194 million in property damage.

Five tips can be used to help assess whether your current appliances are safe for continued use and help you to make smart decisions when purchasing new appliances:

1. Read the owners’ manual or users’ guide: These resources provide essential information to keep you safe.

2. Only use as intended: Using appliances for activities other than what they are designed for can pose serious risks. The clothes dryer should only be used for fabrics and an oven should not be used to heat the home.

3. Trust your instincts: If an appliance smells, sounds or functions strangely – be suspicious. This is a likely indicator to replace the problem appliance or at least have it inspected by a licensed technician.

4. Follow preventative maintenance measures: Lack of preventative maintenance is a contributing factor to some appliance malfunctions and fires. Simple ways to keep your appliances in peak performance include never overloading the clothes washer; periodically removing debris from the dishwasher filter; and immediately unplugging the vacuum cleaner and dislodging items that should not have been picked up.

5. Look for safety certification: Safety certifications, such as the UL Mark, confirm a product has been tested and certified to meet the highest standard in safety.

If you’re ready to buy a new home appliance, you should start by researching available government and manufacturer rebate programs in your area. Programs usually vary by state so qualified appliances and rebate amounts will differ.

To learn more about 2010 state rebate programs, and to find more tips on appliance safety, visit www.UL.com/appliancesafety.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

A few years ago, the Salt Institute conducted an informal survey of county and municipal agencies regarding their practices of sidewalk snow clearing. Eighty-three percent of the agencies have written policies directing property owners to remove accumulated snow and ice “within 24 hours of the end of the snowstorm.” Penalties for property owners not complying can range from nominal tickets, to misdemeanors punishable by up to 90 days in jail, to fines of up to $500.
There is also the possibility of a lawsuit alleging negligence if sidewalks and parking lots are not properly maintained and a pedestrian slips and is injured. Often the homeowner, business owner and municipality are all named in such lawsuits. Over half of the agencies which responded to the survey reported being sued for a sidewalk accident.

Some property owners cite confusion over the liability involved with the decision “to shovel or not to shovel.” The common misconception is that by not shoveling, plowing or spreading salt, one cannot be sued for clearing surfaces poorly in case of a pedestrian slip and fall.

While laws vary by state and municipality, most mandate clearing and offer some level of protection for reasonable efforts. For instance, the Illinois Snow and Ice Removal Act states that any owner who “removes or attempts to remove snow or ice from sidewalks abutting the property shall not be liable for any personal injuries allegedly caused by the snowy or icy condition of the sidewalk resulting from his or her acts or omissions unless the alleged misconduct was willful or wanton.”

Property owners should check their state laws and local ordinances and then take the required actions, which may include hiring a private contractor to clear areas of snow and ice if they are unable to do it themselves.

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Whether you modify your current house or purchase new  these are some must-haves to ensure you’ll have a safe, secure and easily maintained home in which to spend your golden years:

Floor plan
* Open floor plan with wide, accessible paths
* Single-story home or a two-story with a first-floor master bedroom

Bathroom
* First-floor master bathroom equipped with safety products, such as grab bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs
* Curbless shower, featuring a handheld showerhead with an extra long hose
* Adjustable- or varied-height countertops
Kitchen and laundry
*  Adjustable- or varied-height countertops
*  Upper wall cabinetry 3 inches lower than conventional height
*  Pull-out kitchen faucet with lever handles
*  First-floor laundry with front-loading machines

Electrical and security
* Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms
* Security system connected to police, fire and EMS
* Flashing porch light or 911 switch

Flooring
* Smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces
* Less than 1/2-inch pile carpet with firm padding

Exterior
* Low-maintenance exteriors, such as vinyl or brick
* Covered garage or carport
* Handrails near steps

For more information about ADA-compliant pull-out kitchen faucets from Moen or bath safety products, such as SecureMount Grab Bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs from Home Care by Moen, call 800-BUY-MOEN(800-289-6636) or visit moen.com.

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“Space heaters and other alternative heating solutions offer cost-effective ways to keep your family warm throughout the winter without heating the whole house, allowing you to lower your thermostat to reduce your energy bills,” says Eric Sowder, senior vice president of home improvement retailer Lowe’s. “Many products have built-in safety features like automatic shutoffs, anti-tipping devices and heat guards, but be sure to follow all manufacturers’ instructions for use and placement of heating devices to avoid serious home injuries and help you rest easy throughout the winter.”

About 67 percent of American households use fuel-burning appliances and equipment during the winter months, according to a report by the nonprofit Home Safety Council. Yet 59 percent have not installed a carbon monoxide detector, and many others that do have CO detectors fail to replace missing or dead batteries, the council reports.

“Fires caused by heating appliances overtake cooking fires as the leading cause of home fires in January and February, and CO risks also rise with the use of alternative heating sources,” says Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council.
Before you begin using a space heater, make sure you’ve accomplished these basic energy-saving steps first. Sowder advises:

* Improve insulation. Adding insulation and sealing air drafts can trim up to 20 percent off your heating costs.

* Installing a programmable thermostat can save you around $180 per year when used correctly to automatically lower the temperature when you’re out of the house.

* Thermal window curtains, like the Eclipse brand available at Lowe’s, can save up to 25 percent on heating and cooling bills, block 99 percent of light and reduce noise up to 40 percent.

When using a supplemental heat source to save energy and money this winter, follow this advice from the Home Safety Council and Lowe’s to prevent fire and CO dangers:

Reduce fire risk from space heaters

* Be sure your space heater has been tested for safety. A label on the bottom will indicate if it’s been tested by an independent agency – look for the initials ETL, UL or CSA.

* Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn, including furniture, people, pets and curtains. An adult should always be present in the room when a space heater is running.

* Turn heaters off before you leave a room or go to sleep.

* Heaters should never be used to dry clothing or blankets.

Minimize CO threats

* Place at least one CO alarm in your home near sleeping areas.

* Have your home’s central heating system inspected, cleaned and tuned by a trained professional who knows how to repair leaks and other problems.

* Be sure gas appliances like stoves and clothes dryers are properly adjusted and serviced.

* Never turn on the gas cooking range in an effort to heat your home.

* Don’t use a gas or charcoal grill inside the house or in a closed garage.

Fireplace and wood stove safety

* Never burn trash, cardboard boxes or Christmas trees in your fireplace or wood stove; they burn unevenly and may contain poisons or cause a fire. Only burn seasoned hardwood, like oak, ash or maple in your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

* Get your chimney inspected and cleaned every year by a professional chimney sweep.

* Before you use the fireplace, be sure to open the flue and keep embers inside fireplaces with sturdy screens or glass doors.

To learn more about staying safe in your home during the winter, visit www.mysafehome.org. For tips on saving money and energy, visit www.lowes.com/buildyoursavings.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Chief Rodgers rappelling.

Lt. Rojtas rappelling.