Short Courses:Discovering the fun of baking cupcakes & cookies!

Who wants a fancy dessert with a foreign name nobody can pronounce, when you can have a delicious cupcake? Plain, with original vanilla flavour, or chocolate, topped with a fancy icing swirl, sprinkles and birthday candles; cupcakes are so much more than just another sweet treat ... they are a lifestyle.



What many fans may not know is that cupcakes were invented in the 19th Century, in America, and were not necessarily small cakes. The name "cup cake" was used because the ingredients for these dishes were measured in cups instead of being weighed, as had been the tradition so far.



Another explanation for the name is that some women would bake their goods in small containers, including convenient tea cups. Because the cups were much smaller then traditional baking pans, they would take less time in the hearth ovens and decreased the chance of burning, a common occurrence with bigger cakes.



Today, baking cupcakes is a breeze. Muffin and cupcake molds are plentiful and with temperature controlled ovens, equipped with timers, and paper mold liners, the chances of burning your baked goodies are rather slim. There are various kinds of cupcake molds. They vary in size and shape, and putting your teeth in a heart-shaped cupcake is no longer unusual. Cupcake molds can be metal or made from heat resistant, silicone based materials.



Cupcakes come in countless tasty flavors and can be decorated in every possible way - even with ganache icing. Imagination has no limits and they can be dressed up for every occasion. They can be made to look like pretty flowers, have clown faces, wear a party hat, or be the resting place for a sugar skeleton. Some artistic bakers have even placed cupcakes on a stick and transformed them into yummy lollipops.



Homemade cookies are another wonderful baking product. They are fun to make and you can enjoy their divine aroma even before they are out of the oven. It draws the children to the kitchen, brings a smile to grandpa's wrinkled face and creates a lip-smacking birthday treat nobody will refuse.



Cookies are traditionally fairly simple to make and generally consist of a combination of sugar, flour, butter/margarine and eggs. The amounts used will depend on the recipe and additional ingredients. Added flavouring can be fruit, juices, chocolate, jams and anything that combines well with cookie dough.



Oatmeal, gingerbread, butterscotch pecan and peanut butter cookies are traditional favourites and let's not forget the much-loved chocolate chip. They too can be whipped up in a jiffy, if you know what you are doing. If not, you could sign up for a hands-on short courses where, in a few hours, you will learn how to prepare dough, feel comfortable around a baking oven and put your decorating creativity to good use. You will be surprised at the hidden talents you posses!



Participating in a cupcake and cookie baking class is not only exciting, it will also give you satisfaction and, as an added bonus, at the end of the day, you will be able to take your freshly baked goodies home to share with family and friends. Can it get any better?



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Carrick Education is a private learning institution based in Melbourne that provides personalised education to people from all walks of life and from all corners of the globe. Carrick Education we pride ourselves the quality of our industry based training. Our students our graduate from all of our courses, including our short courses, graduate as confident professionals. Many students that complete our range of business courses go on to be industry leaders. Written and distributed by Shout search engine optimisation.

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Storing and Cleaning Emergency Water Containers

Copyright © 2009 GetReadyGear.com



How Not to Store Water



In an emergency survival situation, you may be tempted to store water in any available container. However, when you can plan for emergency water storage, your water storage options can be better defined. Let's start with what not to store water in:



• Containers that can't be sealed tightly

• Containers that can break, such as glass bottles

• Containers that have ever held any toxic substance

• Plastic milk cartons or bottles

• Hard plastic bottles made with polycarbonate plastics and identified by the #7 recycling symbol

• Used pre-packaged water bottles



Any containers that can not be sealed tightly are not a good choice for water storage as contaminants may easily enter the container. While glass bottles are easily cleaned and may seal well, their breakability and weight make them to be less desirable for emergency water storage use. Obviously, you would not intentionally store water in any container that previously held a toxic substance. Such substances can not be adequately cleaned from the walls of the container. If you don't know what was in a particular container - it should not be used. The biggest problem with plastic milk cartons is their inability to be resealed, plus they are difficult to clean and break down over time.



We now know that hard plastic bottles made with polycarbonate plastics and identified by the #7 recycling symbol, may leach BPA (Bisphenol A) and should not be used for water storage. The type of plastic bottle in which water is usually sold is generally a #1, and is recommended for one time use only. Do not refill these pre-packaged water bottles.



How to Store Water



Refill your emergency water storage container with tap water. You should dump and refill each container every 6 months to keep it fresh.



TIP: Using a garden hose to fill containers from an exterior hose bib can result in water that has a distinct plastic or rubbery taste. Instead, try using a potable water hose found at most RV service centers.





All public water supplies are already treated and should be free of harmful bacteria. However, as an additional precaution, it is recommended that you add 5-7 drops, about 1/8 teaspoon, of chlorine bleach per gallon of water stored. This precaution protects you against any lingering organisms in storage containers that may have been inadvertently missed during the cleaning process.



You may also extend the storage life of your water by using a product called Water Preserver™ Concentrate. This is a liquid additive that disinfects, preserves and extends the safe storage life of emergency drinking water. Water Preserver™ provides 5-year storage guaranteed for regular tap water or commercial bottled water. Water Preserver™ kills and prevents the re-growth of Coliform bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms for 5 years, when used as directed. Water Preserver™ kills the pathogenic organisms responsible for typhoid, dysentery and other serious diseases, and also kills and prevents growth of yeast, mold, fungi and algae which also make water undrinkable.



Do not store your emergency water supply in the attic due to the potential for excessive floor loading (water weighs 8.3 lb/gallon) and leakage. Don't stack containers over 2 high and secure them from falling over, especially in earthquake zones.



If possible, store emergency water in a cool dark place. To increase the shelf-life of water stored in translucent containers, group the containers together in dark plastic bags to keep out the light.



Store your water supply away from gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, or similar substances that give off vapors.



Recommended Water Storage Containers



Plastic water bottles are very convenient for carrying water around when we are on the go, as they don't break if we drop them. However, it is worth paying attention to the type of plastic your water bottle is made of, to ensure that the chemicals in the plastic do not leach into the water. To be certain that you are choosing a bottle that does not leach chemicals, check the recycling symbol on the bottle. If it has a #1, #2 HDPE (high density polyethylene), a #4 LDPE (low density polyethylene), or a #5 PP (polypropylene), your bottle is fine.



Survival quantities of water can be purchased in small single-use packages including juice boxes and pouches. Such water is packaged with a 5 year shelf-life as approved by the U. S. Coast Guard. Larger quantities of water may be stored safely in approved containers such as 2 gallon plastic bags, 5 gallon containers or 55 gallon barrels. A key consideration with larger containers is the inability to move them or carry them very far once they are full.





Cleaning Water Storage Containers



Assuming you are using an approved storage container as noted above, follow the steps below to clean your container.



Step 1: Drain all water from your emergency storage container. Keep in mind, you do not have to throw this water away, it can be used to water plants, the lawn, or even give the dog a bath.



Step 2: Mix dish washing soap and clean water and pour into your storage container. Agitate the container so that the soap and water mixture hits all of the cracks and crevices and internal surfaces including the cap or pour spout.



Step 3: Thoroughly rinse your water storage container several times with clean tap water to remove any soap residue.



Step 4: Mix a solution of 4 cups water and 1 tablespoon of chlorine bleach (with 5.25% - 6% sodium hypochlorite as an active ingredient) for every gallon of water your storage container holds.



WARNING: Do not use scented or "color safe" bleach products. Liquid bleach loses strength over time. If the bleach is a year old, double the amount to 2 tablespoons. Two year old bleach should not be used. Bleach should be stored out of direct sunlight and away from heat to avoid deterioration.



Step 5: Pour the bleach solution into the container and close the top of the container and shake it, roll it and swish the solution around in the container until it has been well rinsed Allow the solution to sit in the bottom of the container for at least thirty minutes. This solution will clean several containers.



Step 6: Open the container and pour the solution into the next container, assuming it is the same size. Repeat the rinsing action described in Step 5. When done, dispose of the bleach solution in a load of white laundry in your washing machine.



Step 7: Thoroughly rinse the container(s) several times with clean tap water. If any algae or discoloration is visible, do not reuse the container.





Dangers of Water Storage



If water is stored improperly (in heat, lid not tight, outside air comes in contact with the water, etc.), or if the freshness/expiration date is exceeded, the water may become contaminated.



Vapors from gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, paint or similar substances can permeate Polyethylene plastic containers (water, milk, and bleach bottles) and affect the water quality. Thick-walled polyethylene containers are significantly less permeable to such vapors.



Stored water may eventually develop a disagreeable appearance, taste, or odor. A lot of times people will refer to stored water "tasting flat." This condition can generally be resolved by pouring the water from one container to another, back and forth about three or four times to aerate the water.



Public water agencies don't chemically treat drinking water with the intent of keeping it preserved forever. While Chloramine is a good preservative, public drinking water is not designed to have a long shelf-life. When you pour water into a container, don't assume it will last forever.



Jim Serre has over 30 years of engineering safety, management consulting and corporate training experience. Additionally, Mr. Serre has over 7 years of experience actively providing the following volunteer emergency services:



• A certified trainer for FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) curricula

• A certified Disaster Instructor for the American Red Cross

• An American Safety & Health Institute authorized First Responder Instructor



He holds a BSME and an MBA and is currently the President of GetReadyGear, Inc., an emergency preparedness supply and consulting company. He regularly provides consultation to schools, businesses and families related to disaster preparedness planning.

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Wet Insulation Cannot be Saved, Walls that Come Out will Need Replaced

Have you recently had flooding in your home? Have you recently found black mold on your walls? Do you know what is happening behind the drywall? Are you hoping that some of the wet walls can be saved?

You need to have your home inspected for water damage by a water damage and mold specialist, and you will find that wet insulation will need to be replaced to completely remove the mold and dampness. Damaged walls will need to be replaced, and nothing in the walls can be saved after being damaged from water.

After the drywall and insulation are removed, the studs and wall boards will need to be assessed. Your mold and water damage specialist will tell you if entire walls will need to be replaced, or if the studs and structural work just needs to dry out. When the structural work is dried, new insulation is replaced, and then new drywall installed.

When a consumer is looking for a reputable water damage assessment company, look for a company that will do an estimation of the water damage, and one that understands the importance of removing all of the damaged wall so that the black mold and other water damage doesn't return.

Water that can flood your home comes in three main categories: clean water, grey water, and black water. Clean water can come from rain, water pipe damage, or overflowing sinks. Grey water has some minor contaminations, such as dishwashers or washing machines overflowing, or sump pump failures. Black water has a high level of contamination, such as sewage, flood water from rivers, rising seawater, or an overflowing toilet.

Even if your home has had just two to three inches of flooding from clean water, the drywall and insulation will wick the water up, and you will have to replace far more than three inches of wall. Often, four feet of wall will need to be removed, with wet and damaged drywall and insulation removed and replaced. All wet or moldy insulation, drywall, or structural wood needs to be removed and replaced - none of it can be saved.

Water damage from grey and black water might need an even more intensive removal process, so a professional mold and water damage company can determine what parts of the wall can be saved, and what parts need to be removed and replaced.

Right Way Contracting and Restoration Services is a leading nationwide water damage company atlanta specializing in 24/7 emergency water damage repair, water damage mitigation, mold remediation, flood damage restoration, document drying, fire and smoke damage restoration and crime scene clean up.

How to Test Your Dog for Food Allergies

Does your dog suffer from skin problems and/or scratch constantly? Does he have hot spots or recurring skin infections? He may suffer from dog food allergies. Food allergies can appear in dogs any time in their lifespan, from puppyhood to senior. There are certain food ingredients that tend to be problematic. Among them are dairy products, chicken and chicken eggs, soy, corn, wheat, and even beef.

Conduct a Food Trial

To diagnose your dog’s potential food allergies you can conduct a food trial, which means feeding your dog a unique diet for up to 3 months. You will need to feed your dog new foods it has never eaten before, such as venison and oats. Lamb and rice diets used to be prescribed for dogs with potential allergies, but they are no longer considered unique foods. Many commercial lamb and rice dog foods also contain soy, eggs and other allergens.

Special foods are available through your vet or you can make your dog’s special diet at home using your vet’s recommendations. The special diet must be followed consistently, no other foods allowed including treats or rawhides. Continue with the diet until you see marked improvement in your dog’s symptoms. Then go back to his regular diet. If symptoms return, then you know your dog is allergic to one or more ingredients in his regular food.

Food Allergy Treatment

Once you have confirmed your dog has a food allergy, you will need to continue with the special diet. If you are not sure which ingredient of the old food is causing the allergy, you could try a home made diet and add back in one of the potential allergens, such as soy. Until you narrow down the exact foods your dog is a allergic to. Then you can either keep your dog on the special diet or try a commercial dog food that does not contain the problem ingredients.

Because symptoms can be similar with airborne allergies such as dust and mold as well as flea-bite allergies, it is important to test and eliminate them as suspects first.

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Can Black Mold affect my health

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Can Black Mold affect my health

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Make Your Own Efficient Black Mold Treatment

black mold is one of the major threats faced by many householders these days. These flourish during hot summers due to increased humidity and in cold winters due to the moisture contained within. Therefore the need for a black mold treatment is of great importance. The first process involved in black mold treatment is to identify it and also to inspect the entire house for the presence. Spotting is not the only process as the more important one is to start with the treatment immediately before it spreads out.

You can make an effective black mold treatment right at your own house. Nothing could be as cheap, simple and at the same time effective as this one. Spray bottle is the basic requirement as you can easily get a good one from the nearby store. Ammonia is the major ingredient present in most of the window and black mold treatments you get from outside. But here, we make use of bleach and never ever try to mix it with any other cleaning solutions available outside as the chlorine gas released with the combination of ammonia and bleach can prove to be deadly! Therefore, never try to reuse old mold cleanser bottles as the presence of ammonia will be still present. So never take chances!

Into the new spray bottle add half cup of beach along with half a gallon water to dilute it. Stir gently to mix both the ingredients well. Here you have your black mold treatment made by you in your new spray bottle which can be stored for several months. All that has to be done is to swirl the bottle slightly each time you take it so as to ensure that the bleach gets diluted properly.

The only drawback with this homemade black mold treatment is that it cannot be used on all surfaces like paint, paper, fabric, wallpaper etc as it is bleach based. In such cases, you can make use of vinegar stored in spray bottles as these can help you ensure better black mold treatment on other areas. You can find this particular black mold treatment working in the perfect way on certain plastics, unfinished woods and even on concrete.

It is not necessary that you must depend on costly black mold treatment or always call mold removal experts to do the job as you can start making use of your own home made techniques to get rid of these toxic substances. blackmoldsecrets has a lot of information to share on various issues related to black molds and their treatments.

Holistic Health: Understanding Holistic Health

Every thought and emotion affects your health. A holistic health approach encompasses treating the whole person… the body, mind, emotions and spirit. Traditional cultures have known for thousands of years that these aspects are intimately connected. Every food we eat, every thought entertain, every emotion we feel and every interaction we experience impacts overall health.

Many blame their health problems on genetics, a virus, toxins in the air, and stress. While these factors can contribute to illness, very often problems result from a lack of fundamental health-enhancing qualities such as responsibility, a strong will, family support, passion, a balanced lifestyle and knowledge of good health. Without these, whatever modality is chosen becomes just another pill to be taken and discarded when symptoms disappear.

When disease is artificially removed without changing the underlying cause, long-term health will NOT be achieved. The quick fix approach brings little or no permanent success. I''m not suggesting that we abandon medical treatment. I am recommending that we look for the deeper causes of the problem from a physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and lifestyle perspective. We need to take the holistic health perspective. Lasting solutions can be found to multiple illnesses of society by getting at the root of the problem holistically.

I have observed patterns among those who have successfully reversed health problems. These traits are not rigid models…we all have them to some degree. They are holistic health approaches that each of us can maximize in our own unique way to return to our natural state of health.

Here are some very important steps you must take to achieve optimal holistic health. I can assure you that by putting these into practice, your overall health will be much improved! Sometimes you have to reevaluate what it is that you are doing with your life. By doing this, you''ll start to see the big picture.

Lets start with the first step, RESPONSIBILITY. This means not blindly accepting the opinion of some outside authority as the only way. Take a look at your previous choices for they may have led you to the problem. Then recognize that you can make new choices to remedy the situation. I am not telling you to stop seeing your health practitioner. I am suggesting that you gather as much information as possible and make your own decisions. Taking responsibility is meant to empower us to make new choices for a healthier result.

Next is AWARENESS, which is simply deeply knowing yourself by observing your thoughts and beliefs, your choices and outcomes, and your response to the world around you. As you observe, ask questions. Do you believe you can recover your health? What does the illness have to teach you? Why do you make the choices you make? What do you need to know? Through questioning you''ll discover the things which seemed unchangeable are actually flexible and can be manipulated.

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of good health. Health and longevity depend on our daily nourishment. In 1988, the Surgeon General stated that two-thirds of the deaths in this country are related to diet. Our eating habits play a major role in many common diseases and emotional disorders. Most Americans have a limited awareness of the power of food in maintaining health and reversing disease. The most effective diet includes whole grains, vegetables, low fat, no cholesterol, proteins and fruits.

LETTING GO OF THE PAST. Resolving conflicts and discovering their positive impact in our lives is paramount in healing. Resentment, anger, guilt and all negative emotional states are self-poisoning. They weaken cells and immunity and can also be the reason for illness. Let it go and move on.

FAITH and the developing sound judgments are important qualities in healing. Faith is knowing there''s an order and unity to life, a sense of wholeness and connectedness with something larger than oneself. With faith, unlimited opportunities unfold, and we gain a sense of confidence in our choices.

FINDING YOUR PURPOSE IN LIFE is prevalent among those who are healthy. Everyone has talents and skills through which they express themselves and you do too! If you don''t find your unique creative expression, you''ll be restless and frustrated, regardless of the success in the conventional world. Purpose stimulates a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. With purpose, your life will take on much more meaning…trust me!

I didn''t have a purpose for many years. The second I knew where I was going my life took a turn for the best. If you don''t have purpose yet, don''t worry! Focus on what makes you the happiest and visualize where and what you want to be. By working toward a goal and a purpose, you will feel alive and ready for anything.

Each of the above factors has a profoundly positive influence on your health and are more effective when bring them together. When utilized, you can go beyond sickness to health and happiness. Start with small steps and build upon them for a holistic approach to your health. Action is the only thing preventing you from achieving optimal health.

Yours in healthy living success,

Colleen Palati
colleen@healthyrevelations.com
9217 Douglas Fir Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15239

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How To Make Your Room Look Larger

Although many new houses today are large, unfortunately they may contain small rooms, a little smaller than we'd like. Small rooms can feel confining and uncomfortable. Luckily we can utilize certain design concepts that fool the eye and make our rooms seem larger. Try these inexpensive decorating tricks to make your rooms live bigger.

1. Use Light Colors

Light and brightly colored walls are more reflective, which will help to maximise the effect created by natural light. This does not mean you have to live with white walls. There are a wide range of light colors paints available, such as light green or cream beige.

Once you've chosen your wall color, choose your trim and moldings colors. Paint your trims and moldings in either the same hue as the walls, or a lighter color. Lighter objects appear closer while darker or shadowed objects appear further away. When you paint your moldings a lighter color, the wall appears further back - thus making your room appear bigger.

Now, don't be worried that your room is going to be bland and uninviting, bolder and darker colors can be be used in furniture, artwork and accessories.

If your colors are already dark, try to move the darker colors to a 'background' role while maximizing your neutral white or ivory.Be careful when using wallpaper. Solid colours are the safest, with tiny patterns taking a close second. Whatever the wall color or finish, we recommend the ceiling in a small room be painted stark white to maximize brightness.

2. Mirrors

Mirrors can have a favorable impact on a room's appearance. A large mirror in the room will reflect light around the room. The mirrors also reflect both natural and artificial light to make a room brighter during the day and night. They bounce light deep into the room, making it appear larger. This is especially effective with near a window so the outdoors can be reflected.

Use glass-front or mirrored cabinet doors to make spaces feel large and uncluttered. Large, expansive mirrors over vanities, mirrored wardrobe doors or a floor-to-ceiling wall of mirrors (combined with our decorating suggestions) can make even the smallest of spaces seem larger.

3. Arrange Furniture At Angles

Arrange some of your larger pieces of furniture at a angle. You don't have to place the furniture at an exact 45 degree angle, often a lesser angle looks best if you can balance the look with another furniture piece.

Setting your furniture at an angle works because the longest straight line in any given room is it's diagonal. When you place your furniture at an angle, it leads the eye along the longer distance, rather than the shorter wall. As an added bonus, you often get some additional storage space behind the piece in the corner, too!

4. Scale Furniture

Keep furnishings in scale with the rooms. In small rooms, use slim rockers, open-back chairs or a simple sofa or love seat rather than overstuffed furnishings to avoid overpowering the space.

There are stores that deal exclusively in furniture for apartments and mobile homes. Despite its slightly smaller size, scaled-down furniture can be beautiful. An open headboard is best for a small room. When furnishing, keep the view at eye level unobstructed. Taller furnishings should be placed at the end of the room opposite its main entry.

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Water Damage Restoration - QCI Online

Water damage restoration is the process of bringing back assets and material goods back to its original state right before it was damaged or ruin by water. As of now, the US government does not have standards and policies as to how water damage restoration should be carried out. However, there are two certifying agencies that advocate criteria as to how restoration is to be implemented, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and RIA. Most companies like the QCI (Quality Check Inspection) use the IIRCA and adheres to the standard operating procedure of the said certifying body. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration uses a procedural standard known as the S500 which is based on consistent and dependable reinstating concepts, study and work-able practice with wide-ranging discussions and data accumulated from various origins.



OCI offers water damage restoration assistance in a 24 hour basis. The company is able to handle any water and flood damage, wet carpet or even water extraction at times of emergency in order to help curtail the spoilage and destructions at an individual's house, business establishments or even belongings brought about by flood water. The company abides with the IICRC guidelines in reliably drying and sanitizing damages caused by flood or other water damaged areas using state of the art extraction and drying tools and techniques.





IMMEDIATE ACTION IS REQUIRED

Time is of the essence with water damage mitigation. Most insurers cover the cost, but require policyholders to act quickly to prevent secondary damage. Mold is more likely to grow if expert water removal and water extraction is not performed, also if water damaged materials are not dried within 48 hours.

QCI WATER DAMAGE SERVICES:

• Emergency Water Extraction • Emergency Board-ups • mold remediation



• Structural Drying • Roof Tarping • Storm/Wind Damage

• Dehumidification • Debris Removal • Mold/Water Restoration

• Sanitization / Disinfecting • Hurricane / Flood Damage • Infrared Thermal Imaging



QCI water damage professionals have the proper equipment and expertise necessary to handle any water damage losses. No water extraction or drying job is too big or too small - we are always ready to help. We can respond to emergency water removal calls 24 hours a day; 365 days a year. Prompt action by experienced water damage and flood damage restorers makes a true difference you can notice in mitigating structural property water damage.

QCI's technicians concentrate on IICRC and MICRO industry guidelines for your safety by drying, deodorizing and disinfecting the areas flooded or damaged using only time tested procedures. Dedicated response teams are available around-the-clock to help minimize water damage to your belongings, walls, floors and ceilings. The QCI advantage combines our team's professional know-how with state-of-the-art equipment and water restoration products.

Equipment:

• Hi-power portable extraction units perform optimal wet carpet water removal.

• Submersible pumps are used for continuous pumping of deep water flood damage situations.

• Moisture detection equipment such as hygrometers, moisture meters, and infrared thermal imaging cameras measure the extent of moisture saturation. Necessary structural repairs may then begin when the water damage area is cleared of excess moisture and humidity.

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, Fungicides & Anti-Microbial Treatments:

• Deodorization products control foul odors emanating from microorganisms and bacteria which flourish in excessive moisture from wet carpet, water damage, flood damage areas.

• Disinfection products deter the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

Cutting Edge Drying Equipment:

• Industrial-grade dehumidification units reduce humidity levels, producing dry air and minimizing secondary water damage to your contents and structural materials.

• High-speed Turbo Dryers create airflow across walls, wet carpet, pads, and furniture, evaporating moisture.

Our state of the art drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, helping water restoration efforts by preventing swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

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Mold Exposure

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Effects of Vacuum Cleaners to Your Indoor Air Quality

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Water Removal

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Water Removal

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Checklist For Buying A Home

I had a client who called saying that his bath tub just fallen through the floor in his new home (new to him). Mold had eaten away the floor from the crawlspace up. The seller had placed a few 4x4s under the floor to hold everything up long enough to sell the house and get out of town.

I asked if he had the house inspected before he bought it. He said, “no, was that important?”

Even if you do get a home inspector, look for these things yourself. Some home inspectors don't look for these items. Some never go into the house.

Mold test

The number one problem faced by new homeowners is mold. You read about it in the news. Every week I get a call from an attorney gathering info for a lawsuit against a home seller and their real estate agent. The topic is always mold.

You can get inexpensive mold test kits at http://www.tennesseemold.com

Gutters

The number one cause of mold in a home is improperly installed or damaged gutters. They allow water to pour into the walls. And water causes damaging mold to develop inside the walls. Make sure the gutters are level and aren't bent.

Mud on walls

This goes back to gutters. If the gutters are undersized, excess water pours over the edges of the gutters and onto the ground. This splashes mud against the outside walls. BUT the excess water also seeps into the foundation of the house.

Plants too close

The new owner, of course, can correct this, but did the previous owner allow the plants to trap moisture in the walls? The damage from this moisture may already be there waiting with costly repairs. There should be at least 18 inches between the plants and the outside walls.

Foundation vents

These vents are designed to let air flow through crawlspaces. This house may not have a crawlspace. But if it does, check the vents. Do they open and close? Some builders slop concrete on them and they are permanently open or closed. Potential mold and wood rot problems can result.

Sump pump?

A sump pump is there to remove water from your basement. If there is a sump pump, then there has been excess water in the past. To work, a sump pump needs some water in it anyway. This standing water can lead to mold and termites. Avoid houses with sump pumps.

Yard drainage

Does the yard allow water to flow into the house?

Blown in insulation

Most blown in insulation is cellulose or ground up mold food (wood). Yes that deadly chemical they put in it will stop mold for a few years but not forever. And even the cellulose free insulation sends particles into the air that we can breathe. This is a major problem according to lung surgeons.

Do attic vents work?

Is the attic hot? Just because the attic has vents doesn't mean they work. Motors rust or burn a fuse.

Crusty stuff on basement walls

If you see crusty white stuff on the block in the basement, it means long-term water problems. That white stuff is minerals deposited over time by drying moisture. RUN away FAST!

Water spots on ceiling.

These always hold mold. You only have 48 hours after a leak before mold begins to grow. After that drying won't help.

By all means, hire a home inspector. Don't use a home inspector recommended by the seller or their agent. If an inspector says something bad about a house, they don't get future referrals from the agent. And make sure the inspector goes INSIDE the house.

Sounds stupid but I have been in lawsuits where the inspector did all his work from the yard or even worse, from his car.

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Do Not Buy Flood Damaged Cars

There are many flood damaged cars being sold on the market. Usually, flood damaged cars, SUVs and trucks are placed in salvage yards. Some though, are made spick and span and put into the car market and they will be up for sale. But the problem is, there really are no tell tale signs of flood damage that would give them away. This is because the cars will be restored so they would look almost like new. The damages caused by the flood would be erased or covered. After the changes, the cars will then be sold to unsuspecting buyers who thinks they are getting a good bargain.

Fact is flood damaged cars are being moved by unscrupulous merchants. Consumers can and should protect themselves against being taken advantage of in the auto market. Luckily, there are several things consumers can do to protect themselves from buying flood damaged cars.

The best things a consumer can do to be sure if a car is flood damaged or not is to get the history of the vehicle. You can do this by submitting the vehicle identification number (VIN) of a car to a website which provides vehicle history information. What these websites do is search a nationwide database of car information then gathers research on the car's title, maintenance record, registration, and odometer. You will instantaneously know if the vehicle has been stolen, has had a troubled past, or has had its odometer rolled back through the report that the website will return. Just a little research on a car's history will reveal if it has been salvaged, flooded, rebuilt, or is basically a "lemon."

Prospective car buyers should be aware of flood damaged vehicles being sold on the car market. Why shouldn't you buy flood damaged cars? Well simply because water leaves a lasting damage. Even if the devices and machines requiring electricity will restore it, it will probably fail sooner or later because mold and mildew aren't' easy to remove. And when a car is flood damaged any warranty warrant is voided.

Below are several things you can do to check if a car is flood damaged:

Check for moisture and dirt.

Flood damaged cars usually have moisture trapped and dirt inside the lights. Dampness can also be seen inside the compartment with glovesF, console and trunk so you better inspect these spots. Dirt, which can also be a sign of flood damage, can also accumulate under the hood. Moisture can also accumulate under the seat. Of course, rust is another telltale sign of flood damage.

Smell the car

Mildew can be easily detected by smelling. Mildew often forms on soaked fabrics so sharpen your sense of smell when you're on the lookout for a new vehicle. Also try to detect other smells that could be caused by flood damage like spilled oil or fuel.

Check if components match

Mismatched component could mean that the component are changed hurriedly after the car has been salvaged from a flood. So try to see if the carpet, seats and stereo components looks too new for the car.

Also try to check if the car has been titled several times from different states, which is usually a hint that its owners are trying to erase the questionable and negative history of the car by looking for spots where disclosing defects is not required or is easily evaded. Cars that are titled several times are usually salvaged or totaled.

Test drive

Of course the best way to check the performance of a car is to take it for a test drive. Check the electrical system including all the lights and the sound system.

Ask an expert

Have an expert mechanic or technician check the car. Have a second opinion if you may. Expert mechanics and car technician can detect flood damaged cars easily than ordinary people.

Remember that in buying a vehicle, never ever take a chance. Buying a damaged vehicle can cost you more than your money. It could also bring serious accident even death. If you suspect that someone is selling you a car that has been flood damaged immediately say no then walk away. The dough you will save in buying a flood damaged car will quickly go away by the headache it will bring.

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Tips for Easy Bathroom Mold Removal

Do you ever wonder how to remove mold in your bathroom? Do you know that you may not even need to hire professional mold removal contractor to do this job for you? All you need is these easy cleaning tips to help you get the job done. Follow these three simple steps to make bathroom mold removal a success.



1. Control humidity level of your bathroom

Humidity level is a scale to measure the amount of moisture presents in the air. If your bathroom has a high humidity level, it means that your bathroom holds a high dampness. The higher the humidity level, the better chance of it becoming the breeding ground for mold. Thus regulating the moisture level within your bathroom is crucial in bathroom mold removal to prevent mold growth. Using a good dehumidifier can help to control and regulate the moisture level of your bathroom.



2. Allow good ventilation in your bathroom

Bathrooms that do not have proper air circulation will promote mold growth. Therefore, the next important step in bathroom mold removal is to initiate good ventilation within your bathroom. Open the bathroom window to allow circulation of fresh air and to prevent hot shower steam from being trapped inside the bathroom. You may consider using exhaust fan to help getting air circulated for bathrooms that do not have windows.



3. Keep your bathroom clean and dry

Wash your bathroom regularly and quickly dry the area using blow fan or dehumidifier. Keeping the bathroom clean can prevent mold from spreading. Scrub off the very first sign of mold whenever you clean your bathroom and this stops mold from growing further. Remember that keeping your bathroom as dry as possible is the key of effective bathroom mold removal.





Find more information about indoor mold problem and effective solutions for bathroom mold removal. Tips for finding mold, cleaning and preventing home mold problem. Learn the symptoms of mold and the effective ways to kill mold and stop mold growth.

GOT MOLD WHAT SHOULD I DO

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toxic mold test

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The Health Hazards Of A Wet Carpet

Water damage due to flooding and other natural calamities does not only affect one’s home and belongings, but also posts danger to the health of the people in the home. There are several ways to make sure that the home is free from any microorganisms that are considered dangerous to the health.



The danger is also not limited to the kind of water that flooded the house; it is also evident in the amount of water that accumulated in hard-to-reach areas like corners, underneath carpets, and immovable appliances. For places like Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi where floods are evident, it is important to take into consideration the possible consequences of accumulated floodwater.



Carpets in particular can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Aside from that, it can also be the home for mold and mildew that can cause allergies, skin rashes, and asthma. Ingestion of mold can also cause an upset stomach and some allergic reactions. Although there are no recorded long-term effects, exposure to molds and other forms of waterborne bacteria like amoeba is still dangerous.



It is therefore important to make sure that the home is protected from these kinds of threats. It is best to attend to wet carpets immediately since it only takes a few hours before molds start to grow. Carpet cleaning Marysville, Oh style ensures that no water gets trapped and accumulated inside areas that may promote the growth of mold.



The most common thing to do with a wet carpet is to replace the pad underneath. A Marysville carpet cleaning services are only among the many cleaning teams that make sure the carpet is completely cleaned and dried. This may cost the family some money but the cost of carpet cleaning is definitely lower than the cost of dealing with a potential danger to the family’s health.



If the family cannot afford carpet cleaning or replacement, there are other options like drying off the carpet through fans or air conditioning. If the carpet is easy to dry and is not attached to the floor, it is best to take it out and dry it under the sun. There are also other remedies provided by experts for people who live in places that suffer from Marysville water damage. Natural calamities may be inevitable, but there are solutions that can help families deal with them easier.

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Control Snakes in the Garden

To have a snake or two in the garden is good. Non-poisonous snakes, such as the common garter snakes, are beneficial creatures because they eat pest insects, mosquito larvae, slugs, snails, crickets, rats, mice, voles and even other snakes which may be poisonous.

But if you really don't want snakes in your yard and garden here are a few tips to eliminate them without hurting or killing them.

Keep the lawn neatly cut and clean. Be careful using weed eaters because the sting from the fast moving string can kill them.

Snakes need cover for protection. Don’t leave wood or brush piles sit in one spot for more than a month.

Keep leaves and other debris picked up.

Don't keep piles of rocks.

Stack firewood on a rack 12" off the ground.

Remove old lumber or junk piles.

Remove their source of food. Keep the insect and rodent population under control.

Place garbage bags in sealed trash cans away from the house.

Repair cracks along the foundation and fill holes around pipes. Snakes only need about a ¼ inch crack to get inside.

Sprinkle moth balls around the perimeter of your yard or garden. But beware that these can be dangerous to pets and children.

Sulfur from a garden center is said to keep snakes away.

Don't plant bushes and other plants too close to the foundation of the house.

Use mulch in the garden beds but not too thickly.

Trim the lowest limbs on shrubs and bushes so they are at least 12 inches from the ground.

Construct a fence around your garden with heavy galvanized screening. Make it three feet wide with quarter-inch mesh. Be sure to bury the bottom of it six inches below the soil surface.

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Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney

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Roofing FAQ: Basic Roof Problems

* What are some of the typical causes of roof problems?

There are different types of roof problems, and it is best to be aware of them so you can avoid shortening the life span of the roof. Some typical roof problems are:

Not enough maintenance done. Failing to fix minor roof problems can lead to a bigger problems later on. Structural damage caused by any physical contact can also lead to more problems later on.

Climate and Weather. Extreme weather (hail, ice, snow, scorching heat) can expedite the deterioration of a roof. Strong winds can, of course, damage the roof as well.

Industrially polluted or salty air (as near the sea) and other atmospheric contaminants are also contributing factors.

Wrong design. A faulty design can lead to early problems. A weak or improperly attached roof can also collapse from weight.

Flashing problems. Flashings are used to make the roof watertight. Improper installation and weak flashing can make the roof leak and by the time it is discovered, water damage maybe extensive.

* How do I know if I need a new roof if I don't see any leaks?

Leaks are not the only reason for replacing a roof. Furthermore, if you wait until you begin seeing leaks, you may end up with more damage and a bigger problem than you had hoped. So, check your roof regularly for the following:

- Age of roof - Depending on the kind of roofing, a roof can last up to 20 years. If your roof is 15 years old, you should be watching for signs of needing repair.

- Missing or torn shingles - Damaged shingles expose the roof to water damage and rot. They also make it so that other shingles may be blown away in the wind. Old shingles may curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness. These weakened shingles are more likely to be blown away by wind gusts.

- Rusted or missing flashing - Flashing is the metal that surrounds chimneys, skylights and vent pipes. It is also often found in the valleys of the roof where the roof sections meet. If it is rusted, damaged or missing, it could cause leaks.

- Gutters - Check gutters, downspouts and splash pans for damage or decay. Look for broken pieces of paint and scraps of roofing. This may be a sign that your roof needs some attention.

- Inside Walls - Watch for discolored plasterboard or cracked paint and peeling wallpaper indoors. This could be a sign of a leaky roof.

* What kind of preventive maintenance should I do for my roof?

Since roofs are constantly exposed to the elements, most roof damage results from weather and pollutants in the atmosphere. To save yourself big repair costs or even having to replace your roof before its time, you should perform a general inspection on your roof at least twice a year, checking for mildew, mold, rust, trapped water, and possible damage, and make minor repairs if necessary. That is the best preventive maintenance you can do.

Also, be sure to keep your roof clean. Remove any debris that may accumulate on it and clean out the roof gutters regularly. Also, repair any weather damage as soon as it occurs.

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Mildew Mold Removal

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Oceanside Mold Removal Encinitas Mold Remediation 760 434 4555

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Feeding Sheep The Right Way - Nutritional Needs For Raising Healthy Sheep

Today we will talk about the proper nutrition for your sheep. Sheep get most of their nutritional needs from the following in no particular order:

- Hay

- Silage

- Grains

- Pasture

Hay is a good source of food for feeding sheep especially when pasture is readily available. This usually happens when the weather is not suitable for grazing or the animals are just kept in a barn for a period of time. Hay may come in different forms but experts agree that if you are to feed hay to your sheep delineate the type of hay you will feed them Mixed hay composed of grass, legumes and other herbaceous plants like second-cutting or mixed grass types are cheaper when your sheep are under gestation period. You must reserve the higher quality type of hay like Alfalfa hay for lactating ewes since it promotes better milk production and contains a high concentration of protein and calcium. Be sure that your hay stack is free from mold and must.

Silage is a succulent variety of fodder for sheep. It is composed mainly of plant material from corn, oats and others and kept in a silo covered by plastic. Its moisture content is high and a good source nutrient for your sheep. The lactic acid that builds up during its production serves as a preservative for your stock supply. In feeding sheep, do not serve frozen or moldy silage to your flock and throw away those that do not pass your quality inspection.

Grains are used for supplemental nutrition in the whole diet plan of your sheep herd. Corn, soybean as well as oat, sorghum and wheat are used extensively for grain feeding. As a meal replacement each type of grain has its nutritional value at the top of the chain are corns and soybean. To help you choose which grain is best for you try to figure in the costs of each grain choice and from there you can make an assessment.

Pasture is the main and staple source of food for your sheep. Having a good supply of pasture in fact is enough to meet the needs of your sheep with respect to their nutritional requirements. The ideal pasture would be composed of leafy vegetation no more than six inches tall. Over seeding clover during winter on your pasture will ensure that the forage in your area is sufficient come grazing season. When you start feeding sheep or grazing you will notice that not all areas have enough pasture to graze on.

All these available food sources should be supplemented with minerals and salts so that your sheep flock will have better performance in late pregnancy.

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Cleaning Green � A Simple Guide to Natural Cleaning

There are numerous products sitting around every household that are super heroes of the natural cleaning world. Most people just don’t realize that they don’t need to go out and buy so many cleaning products, because their kitchen pantry is filled with natural alternatives.

Natural cleaning has several benefits, it is better for the environment, it cuts down on harmful chemicals in the air we breathe and it keeps more packaging products (plastic bottles…) out of our landfills. It’s also cheaper, why spend money on a separate cleaning product for every task. The benefits go on and on, grab a good book about natural cleaning and find out more of its benefits at your local library.

Here are a few of my favorite natural cleaning recipes and tips:

Baking Soda:

• Mix a small amount of baking soda with liquid castile soap to get countertops, sinks and tubs sparkling like new.

• Sprinkle the carpet with baking soda before you vacuum to release pet odors.

• Take one cup of baking soda and four cups of water and let it dissolve then put in a spray bottle and spray on stubborn stains. (Make a thick paste to rub on with your hands for tougher stains.)

• Clean your toilet by pouring one part baking soda to four parts vinegar into the toilet. Let it sit 15-30 minutes (deending on the degree of the stains) before scrubbing.

Lemon Juice:

• Clean copper with lemon juice. Cut a lemon in half. Dip it in salt, and rub gently in a circular motion to clean spots from your copper.

• Countertop stains can be zapped away by applying lemon juice to sit on to the stain for a few minutes (not too long, it can damage certain surfaces). Follow up by scrubbing the stain with baking soda.

• Lemon juice is a natures bleach. Apply lemon juice to white linens and clothing and lay them in the sun to dry. Stains will be bleached away.

Hydrogen Peroxide:

• To treat mold in the bathroom, fill a spray bottle with 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 cup water. Spray onto moldy areas, let sit for an hour, then rinse off.

• Keep a spray bottle of hydrogen peroxide and another of white vinegar (don't mix the two in one bottle). For a disinfecting spray, for vegetables and surfaces, spritz with one, then the other, then wipe clean.

Olive Oil

• Polish your furniture by mixing together equal parts olive oil and white vinegar.

• To brighten brass surfaces, rub with a cloth dampened with olive oil after cleaning. This will keep the brass from tarnishing.

• Keep stainless steel surfaces free of streaks and finger prints by rubbing olive oil onto stainless steel surfaces.

• Mix 1/4 cup olive oil with a few drops of lemon juice for a natural shoe polish. Buff the mixture on and then buff away.

If you’re one of those people (like me) that loves a fresh smell after cleaning try adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender, jasmine or eucalyptus to any of the mixtures. The oils can add cleaning power to the mixtures too!

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Organic Solution Prevent Black Mold

The fastest and safest natural cleaning product to remove mold spores is black mold. Now no need to use harsh chemicals which give offensive odors. One more developed agent from green cleaning product released in the form of solution in a friendly used kit. http://propertyperfections.net will give you complete updated information on product formulations about black mold removers. Human body is affected by black mold. To counter attack such adverse effects natural cleaning products are being developed. While most green cleaning products and solutions are not to be removers, there are a few that destroy and prevent black mold.



Having an organic solution do both the killing of the black mold as well as the prevention method, is priceless. Many attempts to kill mold by bleach become vain in United States. Both protection and cleaning by natural cleaning solutions became very popular.





You need right source to attack in destroying black mold. This will stop spores from regeneration. A real hard time that most of environmentally friendly cleaning products to tackle with black mold. It is dangerous to inhale during chemical bleaching operations.



Natural cleaning product is used to remove the mold and a protectant is added. The protectant must be capable to developing "Safe Shield" which makes a clear barrier on the sprayed area. The mold and mildew will be placed into a bubble by this barrier. The steps that are used in mold remediation are black mold spores encapsulation. It is essential to encapsulate the area after fully removing the problem to ensure black mold will never come back.



For preventing coming back of black mold, you must try to get a powerful mold kit that contains natural cleaning product. This kit will include a mold cleaner called Molderizer and a powerful blocker called Safe Shield. Your home and family will be protected by use of these two solutions. I



The symptoms will not be same for the persons that used a type of toxic mold. Living with organisms like mildew, mold and fungi is painful. Black mold is a powerful organism that has excrement that is toxic, thus the name toxic black mold. Individuals are more susceptible to many species of toxic black mold.



Below are some important black mold symptoms you will need to be aware of. If you are dealing with mold and mildew, you must know the top 7 black mold symptoms.



The result of inhaling the airborne toxins of black mold and mildew spores is dizziness and migraine type headaches.



Coughing and wheezing are the second mold symptoms. Excess multiplication of mold in the lings cavities need lung removal



Skin iffitations. If the organisms touch skin, will produce skin rashes.



To learn about black mold and toxic mold symptoms be sure to read about it first and not dive into touching the organisms without any special gloves, eye gear, and protection. Though every body may not suffer from the effects of black toxic mold but it is essential to know about it. If they do, you should immediately try to get fresh air as this will lessen the symptoms. Proper medicines should be obtained by doctor if symptoms of black mold worsen.

Trying to find more desirable ways of mold cleaning? Have a look at our mold remediation products section for more creative tips and advice.

Healthy Fall Housecleaning

As your calendar pages fly by, carrying you through October and into November, many of you will participate in that age-old tradition called fall housecleaning. You'll be packing up the swim toys, summer clothes, picnic baskets, and oscillating fans. Then you'll dig out the winter coats, boots, comfy afghans, fireplace tools, and, if you are lucky enough to live where snow falls, sleds and ice skates.

You'll be busy cleaning out the dust and grime tracked in by kids and dogs and by breezes blowing through open windows all the busy summer long. Before you snuggle in for the winter to enjoy family evenings around the crackling fireplace or have those holiday gatherings with all their hustle and bustle, you'll probably wax, polish, and clean your house until the fireplace glow is reflected throughout the room.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this time-honored tradition. Not only can you make your home clean, well ordered, and homey, ready for the long winter months, but you can actually make it a healthier place for your family and improve your own personal health as you work.

As you do your fall housecleaning, remember to focus on those areas that contribute to allergies. A multitude of things in your home can trigger allergies, from mold, to dust in bedding and on furniture, to your family pet. Even those friendly, burning candles can contribute to toxic air and allergy problems. Let's discuss these allergy-producing problem areas.

You can find mold in damp basements, refrigerator drip pans, air conditioners, garbage pails, shower stalls, and closets. There are non-toxic cleaning products that will get rid of existing mold. As an extra precaution, use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathroom and open windows on low humidity days to refresh household air. Don't forget to dust and clean heating units and oil burners, checking for foreign objects in heating elements.

As you attack all that summer dust, remember that it contains allergy triggering, microscopic dust mites that feast on shed human and animal skin cells. These fecal-producing dust mites thrive in warm and humid places like beds, furniture, and carpets. After you vacuum and dust thoroughly with a vacuum that filters dust and does not allow it back into the air, use hot-water washing and high-heat drying to launder all bedding and stuffed toys. For further protection, put anti-allergen covers on bedding, even box springs and dehumidify the air, including closets and cabinets.

Remember that your family pet also contributes to toxic air and allergies. Pet dander (skin flakes) is a nearly invisible pollution that your pet releases as it grooms, releasing dander and proteins from saliva into the air. Bathe pet, using dander-reducing shampoo, and follow up with an anti-dander spray. To help keep pet dander allergies down, install HEPA filters in air and heat systems to help keep the air clean.

Have you been wondering how all this work is going to improve your own personal health? Well, I'm sure you have heard that any physical activity that raises and keeps your heart rate in its target zone for at least 20 minutes a day helps you lose weight and get fit. That includes serious housecleaning. As you scrub and polish your home, you can also tone, exercise, and oxygenate your muscles. After warming up with light activity like dusting and tidying up rooms, build up your work intensity and speed to raise your heart rate to your personal workout zone.

As you vacuum or mop, breathe deeply and lunge, switching sides to work out both arms. Put your whole body into mopping, scrubbing, or stair climbing. Swing your arms, pump your legs, and fill waiting time at the dryer or microwave with squats, push-ups, or other exercises. Turn on energizing music and dance your way through your chores. Stretch your body in every way possible as you keep your heart rate in the zone for 20 minutes. Cool down with lighter chores and enjoy your workout, knowing that not only will your fall housecleaning be done, but you will have contributed to your own personal wellness and fitness at the same time.

There's another very pleasant thing you can do this fall that will contribute to the humidity balance and oxygen level of your home and quietly clean pollutants, gasses, and toxins out of the air. You can decorate your home with air-cleansing houseplants. Palms, ferns, and ivy are especially good at removing toxic gases from the air. A plant for every 10 square yards of floor space will both cleanse and beautify your home.

As each room is completed, you may want to set a homey scene with aromatic candles. Unfortunately, candles, especially if they are scented, release toxic soot, carcinogens, and even lead (from wire wicks), that flood the air with enough pollution to ruin computers and furnishings and affect breathing, especially for people with asthma, lung, or heart disease. Fragrance oil candles and container candles don't burn cleanly and are even more dangerous than open-flame candles. You can use diffusers for aromatherapy and choose unscented candles with no petroleum products and wire-free wicks for atmosphere.

When your fall housecleaning is finished, sit back, put your feet up, relax with a cup of herbal tea before the fire, and know that both you and your family will enjoy your cleaner, healthier home in the winter months ahead.

Copyright (c) 2006 Dr. Eileen Silva

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Prevent Cancer Through A Detox Diet

Getting cancer is very common nowadays. It may be a loved one, a relative or your next door neighbour, who has got cancer and is now desperately trying to find a cancer cure. Finding a cure when one is already diagnosed with cancer is definitely more difficult and nerve wrenching than adopting good cancer prevention habits in the first place. Learning how to prevent cancer is a must for everyone because cancer does not discriminate - anyone can get it.

To treat and prevent cancer, new ideas are being thrown out there everyday, but all of them are based on living a healthy lifestyle. Going on a detox diet is a newer form of cancer prevention that has really taken off.

Preventing cancer is possible if you keep your body healthy and free of toxins. Eating healthily is always advisable no matter what disease you are fighting. The reason for this is that healthy foods contain vitamins and have properties that make your body function better. A body that functions properly and at an efficient level stays healthier. That brings us to exercise. Exercise helps your body to burn fat and keeps your muscles toned. It also helps your heart and lungs work better which allows your blood to flow better and keeps waste moving through your body properly. Keeping a healthy lifestyle prepares your body to be healthy.

A detox diet helps your body organs to work at its optimal level and without obstruction. It helps help to remove toxins from your body and remove waste more efficiently. A detox program usually involves lots of fiber and water, and giving your body organs a break. Fiber helps your body to remove waste, which frees up your system to digest food better. This in return gives you more energy. Water has an overall effect on your energy levels and how your body functions. Instead of letting waste build up and causing loads of problems, the detox diet rids your body of waste that frees up your colon. In a nutshell, the detox diet lets your colon get back to work and for your colon to work optimally once again. A colon that is not working can only result in cancer.

Because all the causes of cancer are unknown, but just taking the time to become healthier in cancer prevention can do a lot for your health and future outlook.

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Mold Removal Vallejo CA, Water Damage, Fire Damage Restoration, Air Duct Cleaning

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5 Secrets To Growing Beautiful Roses

A rose is a rose is rose - and there are few things in the garden more beautiful.

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Sacramento Mold Damage

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What Cleaning Contractors Need to Know About Mold in Carpet

One area of growing concern to building owners is indoor air quality. Feeding poor indoor air quality can be one of over 1,000 types of mold found in the United States and over 100,000 types found worldwide. Mold and mildew can grow rampant indoors and lead to various health problems such as allergic reactions, asthma, sneezing, eye and skin irritation, and other respiratory complaints. Carpets that are not cleaned and dried properly can be a haven for mold spores, which thrive on excessive moisture.

There is no practical way to keep mold spores from entering your buildings. Spores enter through open doorways, windows, and ventilation systems. People also track mold spores through buildings, as they can attach themselves to clothing and shoes.

Molds need three things to grow: moisture, nutrients and a suitable material such as carpet, paper, ceiling tiles, drywall or a host of other materials. When molds are disturbed they are released into the air and inhaled by the people in the room. Some individuals are not affected by mold, but others can be highly sensitive.

If asked to clean a carpet that has mold problems you need to first assess the situation. Are there underlying factors that are causing excessive moisture? Water problems, such as broken pipes, leaking roofs, over-watered plants or flooding, and improper carpet cleaning can lead to mold in carpets.

Assess the situation to make sure that it is something your company can handle before agreeing to rid the carpet of mold. First make sure the source of the water problem, such as broken pipes or a leaking roof, is fixed. Then make sure the problem has not escalated to a point where the carpet should just be replaced.

If you decide you can handle the job, clean the carpet with a product such as a biocide that is designed to stop microbial growth. Following are some steps to follow when removing mold and mildew from carpet:

1. Apply a low alkaline all-purpose spotter and wipe it off.

2. Rinse with a mild acidic carpet rinse and neutralizer.

3. Thoroughly dry the carpet.

4. Apply a mildew stat carpet sanitizer. Make sure you follow all label directions and recommendations. Let the solution air-dry.

Although the EPA recommends a bleach solution to kill mold in some situations, many of the mold and mildew removers that contain bleach will harm carpet fibers, so you should not use it. While cleaning, employees should wear gloves and respirators to avoid breathing in the mold spores.

After cleaning, use fans to dry the carpet. Once you handle the mold problem and the carpet is dry, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove any remaining mold spores. Vacuums with HEPA filers won’t stir up the remaining mold spores into the air. If the area is one that will continue to have excessive water, you can recommend the building owner replace the carpet with tile or laminate flooring so you can easily mop up the water as needed.

Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store

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Guide to mold inspection environmental solutions association

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Are Homes Toxic?

My husbands cigarette box, courtesy the government, lists a handful of ingredients: Tar, Nicotine, Carbon monoxide, Formaldehyde, Hydrogen cyanide, and Benzene. There are probably more to list, but the flap is only so big. Many families with smokers have taken measures to keep the children (or themselves) away from smoke. They take it to one ventilated room, take it outside, or for the ultimate and only full protection they wisely abandon smokes forever.

You’re no doubt aware of that, considering all the media attention on a cigarette’s toxic fumes. What you may not be aware of is the “ingredient list” of everything that remains in your home. There are still dangerous fumes in homes everywhere, and I’m not talking about so and so’s habit of breaking wind.

Our homes have their own toxic sludge, even sharing some “ingredients” with cigarettes, like Formaldehyde!

Did you know?

*Wrinkle-free sheets contain formaldehyde. Your mattress probably does too!

*Some bath towels contain toxic chemical residues.

*If a family members workplace has issues with asbestos, lead, or other toxins, said toxins can be carried home!

*That “new car smell” is Vinyl chloride, a known carcinogen.

*Is your house over 30 yrs. old? Until the ’70’s many paints, floor finishes, and possibly more home renovation supplies still contained lead.

*Do you have a wood deck or swing set in your back yard put in before 2004? Weather resistant lawn items made before a certain 2004 (US) ban contain arsenic.

*Most popular home cleaning products contain Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) which are linked to various medical problems including cancer.

Craig Mouldey, the Wood Flooring Guy (www.woodflooringguy.com) says, “there are many products in our homes, including plywood, the core of cabinets, and likely even laminate that uses a urea-formaldehyde adhesive.” Your furniture, your carpets, pretty much everything made by man contains VOCs.

The National Academy of Sciences estimates that 15% of the population currently suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Environmental Illness due to the toxic environments we live in. So many home toxins are in fact, like cigarettes, linked to cancers and other debilitating illnesses. The next front in health may be the home front.

Tips for Clearing the Air in Your Home

-Avoid chemical products and cleaners

+Instead use common baking products like vinegar and baking soda or purchase “all-natural” non-chemical cleaners. If you have a closet full of chemicals, call your local government office for information about their disposal. They consider these items hazardous waste!

-Avoid the use of aerosol sprays (Includes hygiene products!)

+Search for alternatives to aerosol cleaners and hygiene products. If you’re an air freshener addict you can substitute it with an open box of baking soda in every room. You can use herbs as potpourri. For more substitutions see this page from NY’s DEC website. (http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dshm/redrecy/hhw1.htm)

+Keep up on maintenance of furnace, air conditioners, etc. Consider investing in some kind of air filter or cleaner.

+Ventilate high humidity areas such as bathrooms. In fact, ventilate the whole house weather permitting. Recent studies show indoor air pollution is worse than outdoor, even in the big city.

+Have your home tested for radon gas, mold, lead, asbestos and other more common pollutants.

+Use solid wood or at least seal any plywood or particleboard.

+Install hard floors and use very few rugs. Hard floors, which you can wipe clean, won’t harbor VOCs residue from cleaners and aerosols like carpets do. Choose stone, tiles or hardwood floors with nontoxic varnishes.

Also, when making purchases for your home be it bed sheets or renovation plans, google for product information and read labels to find out about the products safety. Look for “low-emitting,” “pesticide free,”"no outgassing” or “no offgassing,” and other related key phrases.

You won’t be able to keep out all chemicals, but you may be able to reduce the VOCs in your home by making environmentally friendly choices whenever possible. More than ever there are companies devoted to making safer products for your home. By being VOC-conscious you’ll also reduce the amount of hazardous waste being dumped into landfills when the time comes to dispose of your less hazardous belongings. As an unrelated but added bonus the time it takes to research products may prevent unnecessary purchases that would just add clutter to your home and put a hole in your pocketbook. Being toxin conscious thus has a myriad of positive effects!

Being a smart and toxin-aware shopper will help you clear the air in your home. You can make the world a little safer for your family and community.

Useful Resources

CHEC http://www.checnet.org/

Indoor Air Pollution Fact Sheet* http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=117535

*Presently includes contact info. to obtain a free pamphlet containing more household products and their associated risks.

VOCs info. from the EPA http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html

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Water Damage Milpitas CA, Mold Removal, Air Duct Clening, Fire Damage Restoration

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Using A Biohazard Suit -- Facts About Mold And Mold Cleanup

A biohazard suit is only one of the necessary steps when it comes to cleaning toxic substances such as mold. Modern homes often have poor air quality, but this fungal growth can make you extremely ill and may even be fatal. When cleaning it up, you need to take every step you can in order to keep yourself and others safe. This includes using the correct protective garment and cleaners.



Mold, Mildew And Its Effects



The fungal growth as well as the damp conditions required for these substances to grow can have a series of negative effects on your health. These invaders can cause irritated eyes, throats, and noses as well as allergic reactions. Many people living with this problem also experience respiratory problems such as difficulty taking full breaths and wheezing. Coughing and phlegm build up also occurs frequently.



Some people are more at risk than others are. Those with respiratory problems such as asthma find mold often brings on attacks. Studies examining the connection between the start of asthma and fungal growth are currently ongoing.



Other people such as those with HIV/AIDS and immune system issues, transplant recipients, and those suffering with leukemia and other cancers are also sensitive to this growth. black mold poses a particularly high risk including extensive internal and external health problems as well as pulmonary hemorrhaging in infants.



Removal Of Mold



Because this fungus reproduces by letting off dangerous spores, safety garments and other precautions are necessary. Check to ensure the safety gear you use has a high enough safety rating. In addition to protecting your skin from contact with a protective garment, you will also need respiratory protection and safety eyewear to protect your eyes.



Standard cleaning chemicals are ineffective at cleaning, killing, and permanently removing this type of growth. You will need bleach or specialized anti-fungal cleaners to ensure the substance doesn't return. Unfortunately, this also means that fumes become a major concern. Therefore, make sure to open windows and doors to the outdoors to ensure you get a steady influx of fresh air.



Soft surfaces such as wood, drywall, and carpets are particularly difficult to work with. In these instances, you are better to hire professionals who will arrive in a biohazard suit and spray special mold chemicals and remove areas that are too far gone to clean. If you find this substance on a disposable item, you are best to put on the appropriate protective garment and simply toss it into a garbage bag, seal it shut and immediately take it out to go to out with the refuse. Finally, the biohazard suit and other items you use to clean up the area should be disposed of as well to prevent spreading the invasion.



Mold is definitely something that shouldn't be taken lightly. Wearing a biohazard suit and the correct protective garments will ensure that everyone stays safe. If you are unsure or find the job becomes too big to handle, you are best to hire experts. They can remove the harmful substances and prevent them from harming anyone or spreading keeping everyone safe and as healthy as possible.



Christine O'Kelly is an author for MPE Safety Apparel, the protective garment specialists. They offer a full range of disposable Tyvek clothing as well as a biohazard suit and accessories at affordable prices.

Mold Removal Hayward CA, Air Duct Cleaning, Water & Fire Damage Restoration

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Advice and Tips on Burst Pipe in Minneapolis

A burst pipe is a common household problem. One news report told of such an incident in one apartment in Minneapolis where a pipe in the basement burst while the tenants were sleeping. The burst pipe caused flooding in the basement, damaging appliances and soaking other personal items. Even big institutions and commercial establishments deal with burst pipes from time to time. Take for example the incident in the University of Minnesota just this year when a cooling system pipe burst and sent water flowing from one floor to another, creating an estimated $1 million worth of damages.

Although common, not everyone knows exactly why pipes burst. Perhaps if homeowners are more aware of what causes it, they can take preventive measures and avoid incurring losses due to burst pipes. The age of the pipes is one factor. Naturally, any object weakens with age and pipes certainly are no exception. No matter what type of pipes a building has, they will eventually get old and wear down. This is also means that aside from water pipes, other pipes like those connected to the sewerage system can also burst and that would need urgent sewer back up cleaning. Low temperatures also contribute to burst pipes because the cold expands pipe material and this makes the pipes weak and susceptible to bursting.

What to Do After a Burst Pipe Incident

After discovering that you have a burst pipe and it has caused flooding in your home, your first thought would probably be "I need to get this water out of here immediately". That's understandable since it's easy to get all panicked with the sight of the flood or water damage ceiling and the water just pouring into the room that all can you think about is how to drain the water. But water extraction should not be the primary concern. The only way you can start extracting the water, cleaning up and drying the area is if you stop the water from flowing in first.

So, the first action you must take is to stop the main water source. Then you can now attend to removing the water. After water removal, the flooded area should be properly dried and fully ventilated to lower the humidity in the room. Remove all soaked objects like furniture and carpets and immediately dry them outside or turn them over to a professional cleaner. Proper and timely drying of wet surfaces and objects would lessen the probability of mold formation. It is best if you can get all this done right away because the longer a surface or an object is exposed to water, the more chances of damage.

Tips to Avoid Pipe Bursts

During winter, it is important for homeowners to ensure that their water pipes do not freeze since pipe freeze eventually leads to the pipes bursting. To protect water pipes from extremely low temperatures, homeowners should make sure to that their pipes are well-insulated.

In addition, if you are going away on a winter vacation, do not just leave behind your house to endure the harsh weather without winterizing it. Do the same to your summer houses. Otherwise, the water pipes may burst while you're away and just imagine the scale of water damage that will do to your home.

If you live in an old house, check the condition of the water pipes. Needless to say, old pipes are more likely to burst so consider making pipe replacements.

Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS. To learn more about clean sewage visit our website. Click here for more information on burst pipe minneapolis.

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Poway Water Damage |Call Flood Doctors 858 486-1496

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Edward Birkholz

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