Cleaning dryer vents
Drying clothes takes a lot of energy. Keeping your dryer vent clean makes your appliance more energy efficient.
There's no magic formula to figure out exactly how much security you need - it really depends on your needs. There are many security systems to choose from, in a wide range of prices.
A whole-house security system may include:
If a whole house system doesn't fit your needs, the first and best line of defense is the exterior doors. Install dead-bolt locks on all doors, including the door from the garage to the house. Once they're installed, get in the habit of locking all the deadbolts every time you leave your house.
Replace old, cracked, or hollow doors with doors made of metal or solid hard wood. And on the outside of the house, you can install security or motion-sensing lights near the doors.
To protect windows install glass-breaking sensors. This device can detect the sound of breaking glass. When it does, it trips an alarm. It's better than a motion detector if you have pets that roam the house at night.
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are two of the best security features you can install to protect yourself, your family and your home. They provide early warning signals so you and your family can safely escape. They also may reduce your home insurance premium if your system is monitored.
The Home Safety Council recommends using hard-wired, interconnected detectors with a battery back-up. These alarms are tied in together, so if one alarm is triggered, they all signal together.
Drying clothes takes a lot of energy. Keeping your dryer vent clean makes your appliance more energy efficient.
Taking a few minutes to check power tools before and after using will keep them in good working order and will keep you safe.
Find out what causes deadly carbon monoxide poisoning - and how to prevent and detect it.
Walking through a wet or flooded basement can be dangerous. To be safe, you should always assume that basement flood water is energized.
Although leaks from natural gas lines are rare, it’s important to know the warning signs.
Make sure your electrical appliances, tools and outlets are safe, and be careful around electrical equipment outdoors.