HOMEOWNER’S SPRING SAFETY TIPS

•    Be sure to use extension cords marked for outdoor use when you are working outdoors.

•    Call a licensed professional if your home repairs require work near power lines

•    Look up, stay away, stay alive – even momentary contact with live electrical lines can injure or kill.

•    Be aware of power lines that run through tree  limbs and branches.  Climbing or trimming trees is dangerous; call a qualified contractor.

•    Call 1-800-962-7962 or 811 before you dig – when working underground, planting a tree, building a fence or laying a foundation – anywhere where there may be potential underground utilities.  See www.dogsafelynewyork.com

•    Never use electrical tools, such as electrical hedge clippers, leaf blowers, lawn mowers in the rain or in wet areas.

•    Make sure all your outdoor  electrical outlets are GFCI protected.

Energy Saving Tips:

1)Install programmable heating/cooling thermostats  (You will save an average of 20% heating costs).

2)Replace regular incandescent bulbs with “energy star” compact fluorescent bulbs (Save up to 75% on your electricity usage).

Read more...

Thinking of having work done on your home?

Time to remodel a kitchen or bathroom? The Department of Consumer Protection has updated the brochure titled, "Time to Modernize your Home? Choosing a Home Improvement Contractor". A copy is available at www.westchestergov.com.

Included in the brochure are tips on finding a licensed contractor, what to include in a home improvement contract, and what to watch for as work is being done on your home.

Remember that home improvement contractors must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Protection. Information about licensing is also available at www.westchestergov.com.

Bathroom Cleaning Secrets From the Pros

Heat up surfaces

Heating tile and the tub just 10 degrees above the normal air temperature "doubles the effectiveness" of alkaline cleansers . Fill the bottom of the tub with a couple inches of the "hottest water you can draw from the tap" and let it sit for a few minutes. Throw hot water over the tiles, shower and tub.

Read more...

Cleaning Microwaves

Heat a cup of water for 3 mins or until boiling.  The steam loosens any dried food, which becomes a snap to wipe off.

Home Safety

Sound the Alarm:

Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. If already installed, test them. Replace batteries every daylight savings time change.

 

1. Avoid Overload:

Check for over-loaded extension cords.

 

1. Don’t Get Tippy:

If young children are in the home, bookshelves and other furniture should be secure with wall brackets to prevent tipping.

Read more...

Home Safety Checklist:

1. Look for UL: The UL Mark appears on products that have been tested, verified and inspected for safety. Make sure to look for it to keep your holidays safe and bright.
2. Watch cord Placement: Extension cords should not be placed under rugs or heavy furniture, tacked up or coiled while in use.

   Read more...

Mouse Control:

• Place USED kitty litter from a litter box in smalltubs in several places around the garage. Mice think... "itsmells like a cat--must bea cat - I'm outta here!".

  Read more...

Home Energy Audit

A home energy audit can reap major savings on power bills, says Christie Matheson, author of Green Chic: Saving the Earth in Style (SourceBooks).  Many utility companies offer this service free or for a nominal fee.  Even if you pay an independent firm, you'll come out ahead.

Lamp Shades

Run a lint roller over lamp shades to prevent dust buildup.