Safety & Disaster Prep

We recently purchased a Ring Alarm Pro security system package and installed it ourselves. Here are some of the features we like, along with some of the benefits when compared to ADT home alarm systems.

Until recently, biometric technology such as fingerprint locks were only found in government and business applications. Fingerprint ID front door locks are now affordable devices homeowners may want to consider for their safety and convenience. This is our review of the Ultraloq fingerprint ID lock.

Slow water leaks in places such as water heater closets can do thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home. Here's how to use water leak alarms and detectors to notify you of these situations, even when you're away from home.

I was searching for a reliable smoke detector that could be monitored using my smartphone. The X-Sense XS03-WX appeared to be the best option.

I was searching for a set of smoke/carbon monoxide detectors that were linked so that when one detected danger, all of the devices would go into alarm. The X-Sense XP01-W, which contains a battery with a ten-year lifespan, appeared to be a good fit.

I was searching for an effective smoke detector with the ability to send notifications to my smartphone. The X-Sense XS01-WT appeared to be the best candidate.

Winterizing a house can help you save money on heating bills and on future repairs that you'll have to deal with if you don't winterize your home. These winterization tips will help you learn how to prepare your home and your family for winter as well as how to prevent common winter occurrences.

Although lead-acid batteries are reliable for use, they can be challenging when it comes to maintenance. Maintaining a lead-acid inverter battery is possible, however, if you're armed with the right tips.

This past winter, we experienced a prolonged power outage at our home in Austin, Texas. One of the ways we survived this ordeal was by using an emergency indoor propane heater. Here's how these lifesaving devices work and how to use them safely to heat your home during a power outage.

This article outlines a mitigation strategy to reduce and remove radon, a carcinogenic from the home.

Learn how to make an emergency battery-charging station for home or RV use in case of an emergency power failure.

Here are some thoughts on making an emergency water storage for your home. You never know when you'll need a backup water supply!

Learn how to turn off your home's gas, water or other utilities in the event of a hurricane, earthquake or other natural disaster.

Learn how to get drinking water from a fire hydrant in an emergency situation, and why you should only do so in an emergency.

The prices of low-quality metal railings are outrageous. Save a mint by building and installing your own galvanized steel handrail. This guide will show you how.

Getting a head start on hurricane preparedness can help you avoid last-minute expenses and unnecessary stress should a storm head your way.

Everybody knows milk, eggs, and other foods expire. But did you know Neosporin and hydrogen peroxide are also perishable? Read on to find out more surprising items that can expire.

From improving your soil drainage to directing runoff, this article shares tips for preparing your property and garden for rainfall after a drought.

Live in a hurricane zone? This article will guide you through preparing for the hurricane and surviving the days after.

Contrary to popular belief, food is not the most essential item in survival, emergency, or disaster preparedness kits. Learn which essentials you'll need to survive without power or transportation.

Winter storms can bring heavy winds and feet of snow. Are you prepared to go days without power in the freezing cold?

What are the most important foods to have in your emergency food supply? Having adequate supplies in your long-term food storage is essential for survival.

A GFCI or RCD is a safety device designed to shut off power in the event of an electrical "leak." These devices can save your life and should be fitted to all extension leads.

It is known that lead is toxic, but do you know what makes it poisonous? Here are some of the common household products that have lead.

Two of the most dangerous health hazards found in our homes are black mold and carbon monoxide. Learn the signs and symptoms of exposure and what you can do to protect your family.

How I designed and constructed a fire bunker using recycled items and spending NO money. My family lives off the grid in a high fire danger area. Adapt my ideas for your own protection in fire season.

The rash of current wildfires (particularly in Arizona and Colorado) should spur one to think of ways to keep the home safe. Whatever you can do to protect your home is worth doing now.

Check out these house design ideas to make your home both kid and elderly friendly now and for the future.

A fire in the home can be a devastating event, damaging property and possibly causing death or personal injury. This guide outlines the most common causes of fires and how to prevent them.

There is poison lurking in almost every room of your house. Identify these potential health risks and keep everyone safe.

Working at a height can be hazardous. This guide provides some tips on how to stay safe while working up a ladder, how to erect it, and safety tips for working on roofs.

A snowy winter may bring power outages. Having a few simple supplies at home can keep you comfortable even if the electricity is off for a few days.

Sandbags are one of the best ways to protect a house against low-level floodwaters. Here's a guide on where to source them or make your own.

Learn the best and safest way to get rid of dangerous glass in your garbage trash can. How to get rid of smashed glass safely. How do you deal with broken crockery? Can you put broken glass in the recycling bin?