10 Car Security Tips To Prevent Your Car From Being Stolen

Posted On January 8, 2018 by Hugo Reed

Cars are investments, and every investment deserves the best in terms of security. Security should be a priority for drivers even if cars were not at risk of theft. Not every car is built to the security standards of a Tesla, or with the schematics of a bulletproof car, so drivers have to realize that their vehicles have some inherent flaws that criminals can take advantage of.

Some of these flaws are compounded by the bad habits of car owners and also by the wiles of criminals. With so much at stake and so many factors influencing the safety of cars, I would like to help car owners tip the scales in their favor. So, today we will take an in depth look at some car security tips you can use to prevent your car from being stolen.

Notable Car Theft Statistics

There is no shortage of statistics to show you the way car theft has evolved over the years, and to also show its current trajectory. According to data collected by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the estimated number of motor vehicle thefts increased by 3.1% (2015). In terms of monetary value, motor vehicle theft accounted for the loss of more than $4.9 billion, and 74.7% of motor vehicles stolen were automobiles.

This data clarifies a few things. First, it shows that automobiles are a favorite among motor vehicle thieves. Essentially, this means that drivers have to do all that they can to minimize their exposure to car thieves. Cars are not the only motor vehicles that are threatened, a guide to motorcycle security would be handy as well. However, cars are the highest number of motor vehicles stolen, so for today’s article that will be our focal point. Ideally, these car security tips should help you practice better automotive security, regardless of whether you want to keep your car safe at home, or keep your car safe abroad.

Car Theft Practices

Before we dive into the car security tips that will help you prevent your car from being stolen, let’s take a look at some of the threats your vehicle faces. I do believe that understanding these threats makes it immensely easier for you to implement the necessary solutions.

Car thieves usually target vehicles in two unique ways. The first method requires opportunity as a precedent and the second requires immaculate planning. Knowing this helps keep drivers aware of how they can be targeted which, in turn, helps them fight back. A crime of opportunity means that in a specific moment, a car thief singles you out because they can tell that you are vulnerable in some way.

This is usually how most carjackings come about. A planned heist requires much more thought and is hardly ever done in the spur of the moment. Here are some handy car security tips that will help prevent your car from being stolen, and keep you and your investment safe in the process:

1. Keep your car doors locked at all times

Learning to lock your car doors at all times is probably the most crucial security tip that you need to know. When I say at all times, I mean at all times, even while you are driving and the car is in motion. Unfortunately, most drivers believe in the common misconception that their cars can only be targeted while the vehicle is at rest. However, car thieves have a plethora of skills that they can use to compromise vehicles that are in motion. This is a unique danger that is ever present, which is why you have to make sure that your car is locked at all times.

In comparison to residential and commercial door locks, car door locks cannot be overcome with all of the same methods. For instance, a burglar might be able to bump a residential door lock, but luckily for drivers, bump keys don’t work on cars. This does not mean that there aren’t other methods that car thieves might use to get into your vehicle. Many car thieves prey on an opportunity, and there is no better opportunity to them than stumbling across a car that is not locked.

Stealing the car becomes much easier for them if the vehicle is at rest, but they are not above carjacking. Carjacking is defined as the action of violently stealing an occupied car. Many car thieves utilize this method to steal cars that are occupied or in motion. Constantly locking your doors is the first safeguard against thieves that would seek to steal your vehicle.

2. Do not leave your vehicle unattended

Leaving your vehicle unattended, especially when it is unlocked, is an efficient way to get your car stolen. Remember how I pointed out that car theft is often a crime of opportunity? An unlocked car that is left unattended is the perfect opportunity for any car thief. I completely understand that it is rather difficult to always keep an eye on your vehicle, after all, you are probably a very busy person. However, there are some tricks that you can utilize to make sure that your vehicle is always within someone’s field of vision.

First, try to avoid parking in isolated areas that are not well lit. Parking in locations like this reduces the visibility that you afford your vehicle, and doing so increases the likelihood of a criminal successfully stealing your car. Most criminals abhor visibility because it leaves them exposed, use this to your advantage. You do not always have to be physically present to keep an eye on your vehicle. There are several auxiliary measures that make it easier for you to keep an eye on your car, directly or indirectly.

3. Do not leave your car running

Another handy tip that helps many drivers out, is learning not to leave their car running, even if they step away from their vehicle for a few seconds. People often take the influence that time has on a crime for granted. The truth is, given even a sliver of time, a criminal will do the best they can to make the most out of it. I am tempted to say car thieves are inspirational, but they are not.

It is important for drivers to develop the habit of turning their vehicles off and ensuring that everything is securely stowed away, even if they are moving away for a brief moment. Turning your car off and taking your keys with you, is simply another way of keeping your car secured. As the old adage goes, it is better to be safe than sorry. Practicing this will reduce the likelihood that your vehicle becomes another statistic that the FBI UCR references.

4. Always roll up your windows

Rolling up your windows is the perfect complementary action to constantly locking your doors. It is simply another measure that helps keep your car sealed away and protected. Windows are one of the primary access points that car thieves use to compromise vehicles, therefore reinforcing them and keeping them rolled all the way up makes your vehicle more impenetrable.

I know that there are some car owners who believe in humanity so much so that they choose to leave their windows rolled down, especially in the summer. I am not sure if this is done because of the faith they have in humanity, or the faith they have in the security of their vehicle. The truth is, vehicles are very similar to locks. If a car thief is given enough time, they can break into a car and steal it, the same way all locks can be picked given enough time. For this reason, you should strive to avoid giving criminals any kind of access to your vehicle.

5. Install car alarm systems

Car alarms are the face of modern automobile security, and they actively help increase the security of your vehicle. A car alarm is the perfect solution for an extra layer of protection that will stay active even if you are not in close proximity to your vehicle. The alarm serves to notify you of any danger, and can also help notify individuals within the general vicinity that something might be amiss. This is the easiest way to call a good samaritan to your aid when you are in need of help.

A common security mistake that people make with their classic cars is that they never have a car alarm installed. This ends up making their vehicles more vulnerable and susceptible to car theft. In this day and age, car alarm systems are commonly paired with keyless entry remotes that enhance automotive security. Car alarm systems can also be paired with anti-theft mechanisms like cruciform locks used to guard steering wheels. These are simple methods that can be used to layer your security measures, and ensure that there is a backup in place should one measure fail to prevent your car from being broken into during an attempted theft.

6. Plan your route whenever you are driving

Before you take up arms against me, you should know that I am not advocating against spontaneous trips because I love them just as much as the next guy. However, I do believe that taking the time to plan your route, whenever you are driving will help prevent your car from being stolen. Planning your route out allows you to be better prepared for any eventuality and it negates the possibility of a car thief being able to take advantage of you, by catching your off guard.

Realistically speaking, you will not always have the luxury to plan your route because unexpected things happen every now and then. However, you should attempt to do this whenever you get the chance. Planning your route will inform your actions and it will help you know what to avoid and how to navigate certain areas. For instance, if you are aware that you will be traveling through a specific area that is considered dangerous or prone to carjackings, it will inform you to keep your doors locked and your windows rolled at all times.

7. Practice proper automotive maintenance

Maintenance is a key car security tip that is often never implemented. In this instance, there are several different automotive components that need to be maintained. Many of the mechanisms that are used to protect your vehicle are prone to damage and wear over time. Practicing proper maintenance is one of the simplest ways of keeping your car security measures in prime condition.

Some of the components that you have to keep well maintained include your car door locks and their corresponding lock cylinders, car alarm systems, transponders and key fobs, windows, etc. If any of these components are not properly maintained, there is is a chance that they will be taken advantage of. The simplest way to plan for the maintenance of any of these features, is to pay attention to them while they are in use. Doing so will help you learn how they function, so that you can spot any wear or damage that has to be taken care of. For instance, if you notice any physical wear on your car keys, you should work to have a duplicate car key made to avoid the scenario where your key breaks off in your lock.

8. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times

Situational awareness is an invaluable tool, and one that can be utilized to increase the security of your automobile in any given situation. One of the best ways to practice situational awareness is to constantly study your surroundings and understand the direct impact that your environment has on your automotive safety. In many ways, situational awareness is a key factor in any type of safety plan, and it is one of the best ways to enhance your personal protection. Assessing your surroundings will influence the way you treat your car and it will directly impact the level of security that you choose to leave it with.

9. Do not store important personal documents in your vehicle

Many drivers store personal information in their vehicles, both knowingly and unknowingly. Some of these documents include the car title, driver’s license and other forms of documentation that can be abused by car thieves. There are some documents that should always be in your vehicle whenever you are driving, like your license and your proof of registration. However, when you are not in the vehicle, these documents should be removed and stored in a separate location. These documents will not draw a car thief to take your vehicle, but they might help facilitate their escape if they steal your car.

I know that this sounds rather tedious, but please hear me out. For instance, if a car thief is stopped by a police officer and asked to show proof of ownership, proof of insurance, etc., they will easily be able to produce the required information if it is stored in the vehicle. I am sure that some of you are thinking that if the crime has been reported, then these documents will be of little use to the car thief.

Once again, you are underestimating the importance of time. There is no guarantee that you will be able to report a crime fast enough for a car thief not to utilize the information they are given. This is not a direct method that prevents car theft, but one that looks to makes the crime harder to execute successfully.

10. Do not keep valuables stored in your vehicle

Storing valuables in your vehicle is a sure fire way to attract car thieves and burglars. There are some car thieves who will simply settle for breaking into the vehicle and picking out an individual item, whereas others will want to take the whole vehicle. It is criminals like these that you have to be wary of because they will attempt to steal your vehicle rather than just settling for the expensive purse or sneakers you left out in the open.

This is something that many mobile locksmiths have to contend with on a daily basis. If someone were to steal an auto locksmiths van, their business and their livelihood will be compromised. A mobile locksmith usually stores their tools and equipment in their van, and some of these items are very expensive and lucrative to a criminal. Leaving things out in the open is bound to attract criminals and car thieves, so you want to do your best to prevent this from happening.

Take the time to look through your car before you step away from it to verify that nothing of value has been left out. In the instance where you absolutely need to keep something stored in the vehicle, try to stow it in your trunk or underneath your car seats. This will help keep the visibility limited.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your car can be a challenging task, especially because there are so many bases that you have to cover. The points outlined will help you get started and they will help you foster better car security which helps prevent your car from being stolen. Take the time to know your vehicle and know what your flaws are so that you are better equipped to combat them effectively.

Link to the article: https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog/10-car-security-tips-to-prevent-your-car-from-being-stolen

Related articles: https://brain2bloghub.wordpress.com/2018/04/04/how-to-secure-your-windows-against-burglars/

For further assistance in home security, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

Rosie on the House: Sunscreens can help prevent damage to home’s windows

Each year, thousands of Arizona residents email or call Rosie Romero’s radio show with questions about everything from preventing fires in their chimneys to getting rid of tree roots invading their sewer systems. His goal is to provide answers that suit the specific lifestyle wherever someone lives in Arizona.

QUESTION: I’m replacing four windows in my house that had suffered serious sun damage, and I’m curious about whether putting sunscreens on them each summer would provide protection so this type of thing doesn’t happen again.

ANSWER: Yes, that’s possible. Just be sure to install a shade that will reflect 80 percent of the sun’s heat.

If you don’t have sunscreens, the summer heat and UV-rays can damage the vinyl frames on windows and bleach furniture, flooring and rugs.

The heat on glass can also break the seals in dual-pane windows. In that case, you might end up with moisture penetrating the seal and fogging up windows.
One thing to remember: Sometimes installing sunscreens can void the warranty on your windows. So check the fine print on the warranty first.

Q: What about blocking the sun with the old “aluminum foil inside the window” trick? Will that help keep sun and heat out of your house? Is there any harm in doing that?

A: It might keep the heat out of your house, but then all the sun and heat would still hit the outside of the windows and could damage the glass.

Q: I had two air conditioning units installed in my house in 1999 as part of a remodel. I was told they were horizontal units installed vertically due to tight spacing. But as a result I have had a big problem over the years with condensate leaking into my walls. I’ve even used tubs under them to catch the excess water. I was told I couldn’t install new units without removing part of the remodeled area. I was also told that replacing them might cost $45,000. What can I do about this continuing problem?

A: I think you have to install new properly positioned units to solve the problem. You can buy vertical air handling units that would probably fit the space without ripping up the house. I also don’t think this would cost you $45,000. Have a reputable air conditioning contractor come to your house and give you an estimate for free. It’s also probable that those old units are now reaching the end of their natural lifespan by now.

Q: I have a very tall palo verde tree that helped shade a window on the second story of my house. Then a microburst from a monsoon storm came along and tore off some of the branches. About one-third of the tree was damaged. Can I keep the tree or does it have to be removed?

A: Desert trees are very resilient. If you trim off some of the jagged edges on the broken branches, the tree will probably sprout new growth and continue to shade your home.

Q: I have a red bud tree that was planted as a sapling that I got from Georgia about 19 years ago. Now, some of the branches are starting to die off. What can I do to save it? I’ve mulched around it and I was wondering if I should fertilize it some more.

A: It’s very impressive that a red bud has lasted for 19 years. Arizona is definitely out of a red bud’s normal growing zone. But many unusual things can happen here if you build a little microclimate to keep a tree like that sheltered from desert winds.

These imported trees can get established and do pretty well. Unfortunately, however, it sounds as if your tree will have to be replaced at this point.

For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. Romero, an Arizona home-building and remodeling-industry expert for 29 years, is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning “Rosie on the House” radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST (790-AM) in Tucson and from 9-11 a.m. on KGVY (1080-AM and 100.7-FM) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.

Link to the article: https://tucson.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/rosie-on-the-house-sunscreens-can-help-prevent-damage-to/article_26f033de-c9d1-5cc4-bf08-123eef551390.html

Related articles: https://247wallst.com/housing/2018/05/13/6-home-maintenance-chores-to-do-now/

For further assistance in home security, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

6 Home Maintenance Tasks You May Not Even Realize You Have to Do

By Audrey Ference | Jan 9, 2018

Home maintenance and ownership go hand in hand, so you’re no doubt aware that there’s plenty you should be doing (hello, gutter cleaning!). Sorry to lengthen your to-do list, but we thought you should know that there are actually a few more home maintenance tasks that may require your attention—and odds are you don’t even realize it.

Curious what you might be overlooking? Here are some home maintenance chores that might be flying under your radar—and why they’re important to cross off your list.

1. Clean your refrigerator drip pan

Did you know many refrigerators have drip pans? I did not. But as you can imagine from the name, it’s a thing you really should be cleaning once in a while.

Doug Rogers, president of Mr. Appliance, puts it this way: “Failing to clean the refrigerator drip pan will result in mold growth.” Yuck.

How to do it: To clean it, first you have to find it.

“Remove the kick panel at the bottom of your fridge, and trace the defrost drain line to the pan, which is where it empties out,” says Rogers. Use a flashlight if you need to.

“Be sure to gently pull the pan out as it may be full of water, and dump any excess liquid in the sink before cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner,” he says.

2. Flush the water heater

“Flush” the water heater? What does that even mean? Great question. According to Doyle James, president of Mr. Rooter plumbing, you need to remove the water sitting in your water heater to remove any sediment that may collect there.

“Sediment causes corrosion, reduces efficiency, and shortens your water heater’s life span,” James explains.

How to do it: First, turn off the electricity or gas to the heater. Open a bathroom hot water tap and let the hot water run for a few minutes to lower the temperature of the water in the heater. Then shut off the cold water valve at the top of the tank, and put a bucket under the water heater drain valve. Open the valve and drain the water until it runs clear, with no sandy stuff. Be careful, because the water can come out hot! When it’s clear, put everything back the way it was and you’re done until next time.

To keep your water heater running at its best, James advises setting the temperature no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Reseal your grout

When your tile was installed, whether it’s floor tile, bathroom surround tile, or countertop tile, the grout was sealed to protect it from wear and tear. But did you know that you’re supposed to reseal it every year? If you said no, you’re not alone.

“You have to reseal grout every year, and most people don’t,” says Debbie Gartner of The Flooring Girl blog.

The reason: Most grout is a mixture of sand and cement, which can absorb water, bacteria, and stains.
“A grout sealer protects your grout so it’s waterproof,” explains Gartner. Sealing will help your grout look better and last longer. The only exception is epoxy grout, which is generally used with glass tile.

How to do it: To reseal grout, apply grout sealant, wipe off any excess that gets on tiles, wait 15 minutes, apply a second coat, then clean the tiles again. Let it cure for 24 to 48 hours. After it cures, test it: Water should bead on top of the grout instead of being absorbed.

Here’s more on how to reseal grout.

4. Test for water leaks

Checking for water leaks around the home—even small, slow ones—will pay off big-time down the road. Why? It can help you save water (and money on your water bill); but more importantly, it will eliminate damage to your house done by water behind the walls or in other hard-to-see places.

How to do it: “Take a water meter reading and avoid using your water for a couple of hours. After two hours, if the reading changes, you have a leak,” James says.

If you have a leak, inspect the pipes of your water-using appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine for cracked, bulging, or damaged hoses. Leaky hoses are easy to replace yourself. If, however, the damage is more extensive, you can hire a plumber.

5. Reseal stone countertops

If you have granite or marble countertops, you should be sealing those babies every year, or possibly more often. The only exception is if you have a presealed countertop. In that case, you’re excused from this one. Not sure if you need to seal? Put some water on your countertop. The more quickly it is absorbed, the more porous your stone is, and the more frequently you should be sealing. That’s also a good test to see if your sealer has worn off: If the water doesn’t bead on the countertop, it’s time.

How to do it: Wash your countertop with mild soap and water, and wipe it dry. Apply a stone sealer, let it sit 15 minutes, then wipe away the extra.
Here’s more on how to reseal countertops.

6. Wash your dryer lint screen

You know that thing gets gross, right? You’re always scraping piles of lint, shredded tissues, and other weird substances off of it. But it can get clogged in less obvious ways, too. The residue from dryer sheets and fabric softener can start to build up on the screen, blocking the airflow. That can lead to less efficient drying and even fires.

How to do it: “Soak it in hot water and dishwashing soap designed to remove grease and oil,” says Rogers. “Gently scrub the screen with a soft brush, rinse it, and let it air-dry before reinserting it into the slot.”

It’s a small thing, but it’ll help extend the life of your dryer, reduce your energy bills, and keep your home safer.

Link to the article: https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/home-maintenance-tasks-you-may-not-realize-are-important/

Related articles: https://knudtsen.wordpress.com/2018/02/12/5-garage-cleaning-tips-for-new-homeowners-in-spokane-wa/

For further assistance in home security, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

8 Tips for Maximizing Garage Storage

Sep 26, 2017

(StatePoint) Most people are pressed for garage space, regardless of the size of their house, from DIYers overwhelmed with tools to moms searching for places to store holiday decorations.

Toter, a leading manufacturer of carts, cans and containers for use in a wide range of home and work waste management and storage solutions, is offering the following tips for making more of precious garage space.

• Keep trash in its place: To keep trash and odors contained, select a mobile trash cart with a tight-fitting lid that’s compatible with your haulers’ pickup requirements and comes with a warranty. Some manufacturers also offer cart and can liners and deodorizers to keep your garage smelling fresh.

• Invest in a multi-purpose job box. Most people tend to have the wrong size toolbox for their needs. Consider the shape, capacity and compartments needed for your tools. Rolling options are great for work done only at home, while a job box may be better for those who do work elsewhere. If portability is important, look at lighter-weight options. New plastic job boxes, such as the Toter HardHead, combine the strength, durability and security of a large metal box with enhanced maneuverability.

• Build up, not out: Ceiling storage racks are an excellent way to use what would otherwise be dead space. Many racks are designed to fit directly above the area where an automatic door goes up and down. Peg boards for tools and stackable totes are also good choices.

• Choose multipurpose storage: Needs can change over time, so invest in storage that can be used for a variety of items in multiple ways. For example, large, durable totes can hold lawn gear, tools or camping equipment.

• Think mobility: Being able to move containers within the garage is important. However, the ability to move them into your vehicle and hit the road quickly also makes life a lot easier.

According to Jeniffer Coates, director of product development and warranty for Toter, “Heavy metal containers are difficult to move, and cheap plastic bins are often too flimsy to stand up to long-term or outdoor use. Consumers will get the most mileage from durable, impact-resistant plastic containers.” These can cost a bit more upfront, but will stand the test of time.

• Protect items: Moisture and pests cause problems in even the cleanest garage. Look for durable storage containers with tight-fitting, critter-resistant lids.

• Categorize: Assign and color-code dedicated areas for each type of item — tools, decorations, lawn equipment, etc. — to avoid the hassle of searching.

• Allow room to grow. While it can be tempting to stuff every square inch, try to leave room for future additions. To ensure everything deserves the space it’s occupying, do a yearly purge of unneeded or unused items.

For more information on finding the right storage solutions for your needs, visit toter.com/storage-solutions.

Keeping the garage in order is a necessary evil, but with a solid game plan and the right equipment, it’s easier than you think.

Link to the article: https://www.gillettenewsrecord.com/online_features/home_improvement/article_d16c2c65-8b99-5ed3-859c-6b75688cd2b0.html

Related articles: http://www.amarr.com/blog/2012/07/24/tips-for-an-organized-garage/?ak_action=reject_mobile

For further assistance in home security, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

Repairing the garage door in emergency

By admin – October 16, 2017

It is quite annoying if the garage door gets stuck in the odd hours. It is a double impact situation for you. On one hand you cannot leave the door open just for this and secondly getting a professional technician to repair the garage door is a herculean task. In this type of situation, your problem could be resolved only by a professional service provider who can understand your situation. You can take the help of your friends or search online to have the address of the professional to have emergency garage door repair done in your home.

Why you should hire a professional for garage repair?

• Emergency service provider: a professional garage repair person knows the importance of his work and takes pride in giving services to the clients. He knows that his services could be required by a person at the odd hours. So, he is ready to understand your problem and very much willing to provide his services at times other than normal working hours.
• Efficiency: Your time and the proceedings of the day depend upon the quality of repair work carried at the garage door. If the door is repaired in a proper way, then you can have the proceedings of the rest of the day move smoothly. As you will not be required to call the technician again and again for the repair work. Hence, the quality of repair counts a lot.
• Safety: Safety of yourself and your family is utmost important. Hence, it is very much necessary to have a professional for the job who can handle the electrical as well as mechanical aspect of the garage door effectively.

Thus, hiring a professional not only solves your problem of emergency door repair but also provides you an effective and quality job work done in an economical way.

Link to the article: http://www.rockfordrealestategroup.com/repairing-the-garage-door-in-emergency/

Related articles: https://houstongaragedoorrepair42.wordpress.com/

For further assistance in home security, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

17 Warning Signs Mold Hiding In Your Home Is Damaging Your Body

Most of the household appliances we have at home are connected to a water source, so there is a high risk of leakage, which leads to water waste and a huge damage to the household.

Moreover, leaks impose another serious health risk- mold.

It is a common fungus type which can grow inside and outside, throughout the entire year. Mold mostly grows in damp, warm, and humid environments. Its microscopic spores travel through the air and attach to various structures and materials and multiplicate.

Mold can be of 100,000 types and species, but while some do not cause any harm, some categories are detrimental to health. For instance, allergenic molds are the most common ones, and they contain allergens, which lead to allergies and similar symptoms.

People who are exposed to mold experience are often unaware of the issue, so you need to know the following 17 symptoms:

1. Headaches
2. Metallic taste in the mouth
3. Memory problems, brain fog, trouble with focus and executive function
4. Numbness and tingling
5. Persistent nerve pain
6. Fatigue, weakness, post-exercise malaise and fatigue
7. Tremors
8. Muscle cramping, aches, and pains, joint pain without inflammatory arthritis, persistent nerve pain, “ice pick” pain
9. Weight gain despite sufficient effort (weight loss resistance)
10. Excessive thirst
11. Increased urination
12. Vertigo
13. Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, appetite changes
14. Static “shocks”
15. Light sensitivity, red eyes, and/or blurred vision
16. Sinus problems, cough, shortness of breath, air hunger, asthma-like symptoms
17. Night sweats or other problems with temperature regulation.

Small amounts of mildew on the shower walls or other application where water accumulates are completely normal, but if you notice mold or mildew growth in room corners or non-shower walls, it is a clear sign that there is some leak which creates a perfect environment for mold.

If you have issues with household mold, you can clean it with the help of mold removal specialists.

Yet, to prevent additional complications, make sure you take care of the leak after the mold has been removed.

Hire a plumber to specify the reason for the leak, and try to solve the problem as soon as possible, in order to prevent serious health issues.

Source: theheartysoul.com

Other included sources linked in The Hearty Soul’s article:
www.mayoclinic.org
www.aafa.org
www.euro.who.int

Link to the article: http://healthy-life-box.com/17-warning-signs-mold-hiding-home-damaging-body/

Related articles: https://flossibettenco.wordpress.com/2014/06/05/lois/

For further assistance in home securiy, click here for more: http://villaricalocksmith.net/

10 Tips for How to Organize Your Garage

Joe Jackson Sep 28, 2017

Better garage organization means easier gear access, which means more time to play outside

I’m about to be a dad, in a little less than two months and counting. In addition to getting the baby’s room ready, I’ve taken on the task of organizing my garage. Call it my form of nesting. This task is not a small one, being that I’m Outside’s Gear Guy and have spent years acquiring and testing about every piece of outdoor gear you can think of. As of right now, I’m still working through the cleanup, but I wanted to share some of the tips I’ve learned over the years.

Consider Your Car

This is the first thing you need to decide: Does the car live in the garage? The answer to this will totally change how the garage gets organized. A big part of the decision depends on where you live. Own a house in Southern California? Your car is probably fine on the street. Live in Bozeman, where it snows all the time, or Dallas, where hail can ruin everything? In that case, you’ll need to squeeze your car in with your gear. I live in Oregon, where it’s fine to leave my car outside, and because it will be hard to get a baby out of the car when it’s parked in the garage, we’ve decided to keep the garage car-free.

Invest in Shelving

Every available inch of wall in my garage has shelves, which maximizes my space. I’m a big fan of Gorilla Racks, because they’re relatively affordable, easy to assemble, stable, and hold a ton of weight. I’m not afraid to load them down with coolers, car camping stoves, and other bulky items. If you’re on a budget, check out these affordable plastic shelves that snap together in five minutes and are great for lightweight bins.

Use Your Vertical Space

The ceiling in your garage is valuable square footage. I’m currently in the process of getting a Racor PHL-1R Ceiling Storage Lift, which will store my rooftop tent. If you have a pitched or otherwise high ceiling, you might also consider it for hanging bikes, surfboards, kayaks, and other bulky items that are hard to store on a wall or the floor.

Don’t Be Afraid to Wrench

This tip relates to the one above. Installing a rooftop tent holder or hooks for your bikes involves turning screws. Thankfully, the stakes are usually lower in your garage than they are in your living room. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, redrill, reposition, repeat.

Keep Everything Accessible

By accessible, I mean you should be able to get at your gear without effort. Don’t store your gear two or three layers deep. You shouldn’t have to move one bin to get to the next. If you have a car in the garage, make sure you don’t have to pull the car out to reach your most frequently used gear.

Bins, Bins, Bins

Bins are a key part of organization, and they’re so important that they get a heading unto themselves. All my shelves are filled with bins that hold various parts of my gear. For example, all my car camping cooking gear goes in one bin. All my base layers go in another. I like 18-gallon bins—they hold a lot of gear but aren’t so big that they’ll topple me over when I try to get one off the top shelf. When possible, I prefer clear bins so I can see inside. Even with clear bins, I’m militant about labeling. I slap on a piece of duct tape and write the contents so there’s never any guessing. My go-tos, for those who are curious, are the Sterilite 18-gallon bins, which I buy in bulk.

Plan for the Seasons

If you have a small garage or a garage with a car inside, make your seasonal gear the most accessible. It’s okay to have your skis in a hard-to-reach spot in July, but your bike, helmet, and pump should be at the ready. Vice versa in December.

Build a Drying Station

I live in Oregon, so water is a problem. I need to be careful about drying gear like jackets and skins so they don’t get ruined. A dedicated drying station in my garage is helpful, because it’s easily accessible and prevents me from forgetting about my gear on the outdoor clothesline. No need to get fancy. Just string up a section of paracord along one wall to drape things over.

Create a Donations Bin

Some gear eventually needs to get passed on. Instead of letting it clutter your garage, organize it into one bin. When it’s time to pass the gear on to friends, Goodwill, or your local charity, everything is in one spot and easy to transport.

Keep Your Garage Clean and Welcoming

By this I mean sweep the floors, get rid of spiderwebs, and maybe add some extra lighting. All these things will keep your garage feeling like an organized space and help you cut down on the clutter.

Link to the article: https://www.outsideonline.com/2243301/10-tips-how-organize-your-garage

Related articles: http://www.amarr.com/blog/2012/07/24/tips-for-an-organized-garage/

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