Using sound judgment to be more self-reliant.
When cold weather strikes, water damage from frozen water pipes or no running water is the last thing you need. We'll explain how to prevent frozen pipes when abruptly cold weather hits, and list construction or remodeling options that reduce your risk in the future. If your pipes are already frozen, please see 3 Ways to Safely Thaw Out Frozen Pipes.
[Read more…] about Prevent Frozen Pipes – Extreme Cold Options, Plus Construction Tips
The best roadside emergency kit for your vehicle depends on your needs. We have a short roadside emergency kit or car kit list, including “must have” items for every vehicle, and a longer, more detailed list . The longer list also includes other tools and supplies that are helpful for a variety of emergencies. Choose the items that make sense for your vehicle, and keep them organized in a backpack.
[Read more…] about Roadside Emergency Kit Recommendations and Checklist
Winter driving can be a unpleasant. In recent years, many areas of the country have been hit with some heavy snow and ice storms, sometimes unexpectedly. Snow and ice increase the odds of ending up in the ditch. Stay a little safer when you hit the road by preparing yourself, your vehicle and packing an winter emergency car kit. Don't leave home unprepared – stay safe! Learn how to put together a winter car kit and make sure your vehicle is ready for cold weather and winter driving with these easy to use checklists.
Note: Check out “Car Won’t Start in the Cold? Check Out these Troubleshooting Tips” for help with cold weather starts.
[Read more…] about Winter Car Kit and Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
18650s are in more and more electronics. This post will tell you everything you need to know about 18650 batteries. An 18650 is a lithium ion rechargeable battery. Their proper name is “18650 cell”. The 18650 cell has voltage of 3.7v and has between 1800mAh and 3500mAh (mili-amp-hours). There are two types; protected and unprotected. We absolutely recommend protected 18650 batteries. The average 18650 battery charge time is about 4 hours. Charge time can vary with amperage and voltage of the charger and the battery type.
[Read more…] about Everything You Need to Know About the 18650 Battery
A snow fence acts as a barrier to slow the prevailing wind, causing drifting downwind of the fence – instead of in your driveway or walkway. It reduces your need for snow removal, and means less work for you during every snowstorm. You can also use the fence to collect snow to melt where you want it in spring, to fill a pond or watering hole.
When I was a little girl up in northwest Wisconsin, we had a lot of “Big Snow” winters. The snow started early and lasted all winter long. The country roads cut through massive snow banks that my friends and I would build tunnels through. (We always used the buddy system so someone was on the outside to watch for the plow or dig you out if needed.) [Read more…] about How to Put Up a Snow Fence for Less Snow Blowing and Plowing
