Emergency Preparedness

Is Emergency Preparedness A Priority For Your Family?

A disaster can occur to any one at any place or time. The most important thing is whether you are ready to handle it. A disaster does not knock at the door to give you a chance to get prepared. It comes when you are not aware and when you think it cannot happen. To be on the safe side, you need to have equipment that is needed for an emergency ready and close at hand. You are supposed to have sufficient information about how to deal with any emergency that may come your way. Always be prepared for an emergency to avoid a situation when you will not be ready to handle it. The following item are very important in your readiness to any emergency:

In Case of Emergency

ICE: This is an abbreviation which stands for In Case of Emergency. You should not confuse it with the ice cubes you carry to drink when thirsty! Modern technology has made it easier for you to get assistance in case you have an emergency. Most phones have an ICE button which can be dialed by a rescuer to contact the person you have saved in case you are unconscious. The button does not require a password. Make sure you have saved the phone number of a person who will be able to implement your emergency plan. He should be a person who knows you very well like your parents, spouse, siblings or a friend you trust. This is what ICE entails. It is very important to have an ICE button in your phone.

Lights: There are many lights that are available for us to use when we are in a situation that we cannot rescue ourselves. Having a perfect flashlight is an ideal plan to be prepared in case of an emergency. Acquire a flashlight which can be recharged by solar energy, shaking or by a hand crank. They are very important because you will not be stranded in case the light goes off. However, the best light is the one that can be charged by a hand crank or shaking. Make sure to have several scattered about for ease of use.

Emergency radio: The truth is that many people forgot the existence of emergency radio since the internet became popular. However, it is equally vital to have an emergency radio in your house. Sometimes lights and power may go off and the only option left will be a radio which has batteries or can be recharged. Solar desk lamps can also be good if they have radio build in which have batteries recharged by solar. This radio might be the only source of information in your house if power is off or disconnected and the internet becomes compromised. Our favorite (as well an all time best seller) is by far the Ambient Weather WR-334-U.

Canned food: This might seem to be light, but it carries its weight. Not many people like canned food because of its taste, but it is better than starving. Have canned food in your shelf or box. You might be in a disaster that restricts you from cooking or accessing a hotel. They are not bad for your heath regardless of their taste. Freeze dried food is also another alternative and can be stored for many years.

Water: This is the most important thing you should have ready. ‘Water is life’. Ensure you can access clean drinking water in case of an emergency.

Check out more tips and gear at http://www.survivalgear4you.com

Is Mold making You Sick In Your Own House?

Do you have a mold problem?

Mold or black mold can make your home or workplace a nightmare to be in. Some people have almost zero tolerance to mold while others are just fine. The individuals with low tolerance to mold are basically living in a toxic environment. The only time they get relief is when they are gone form the space. This must be taken care of by a mold remediation specialist. Failure to take care of the problem can lead to serious health issues.

Mold grows in damp, dark places that also provide a food source. Basements with cardboard boxes are a prime example. Also - sheetrock that has been wet or in a flooded environment provides an ideal place for mold to grow and flourish. this was seen after Super Storm Sandy here in the Northeast. Basements that had never been wet got water for the first time - leaving mold behind in its' wake. Attics are another place mold can sometimes grow. Ice dams can cause moisture to form on the underside of the roof sheeting. Also - improper ventilation can be the culprit.

How to prevent mold growth

Mold hates dry spaces! Your best defense is to keep areas dry where mold can grow. Store your belongings in plastic containers on vented shelves to keep air moving around. The use of dehumidifiers in damn areas is also a good idea. make sure gutters are free flowing and downspouts are away form the foundation - this is a major cause of moisture. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundations and leaders should be installed to allow water to flow away from the foundation.

What to do if you suspects mold in you living space

Calling a mold remediation company is your first course of action. They will perform a visual inspection as well as an air sample test if needed. They will then write a protocol to remove the mold. Find a trusted company by asking around as well as getting references from them. A great place to ask is your local Realtor or home inspector as the often times deal with these types of contractors.