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Backyard Electrical Safety Tips

Pauline Hammerbeck — Fri, 24 May 2013 11:03:35 +0000

Memorial Day kicks off the summer season for many homeowners. And, chances are, this will be the beginning of many weekends spent barbecuing, enjoying a backyard swim or just doing yard work, home maintenance, landscaping and other projects outdoors. But whether you're taking a dip in the pool or planting flowers, it's important to remember that you are surrounded by electricity and that outdoor electrical safety shouldn't be overlooked. Here are some electrical safety precautions to consider when you're out in the back yard.

Pools and Electrical Safety

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, electrical hazards in and around swimming pools were to blame for 60 deaths and nearly 50 serious shocks over the past 13 years. The CPSC, in conjunction with the American Red Cross, has compiled the following electrical safety tips for preventing backyard fires, or any other potentially dangerous or life-threatening electrical situations that may occur.

Inspections. Before the warm weather arrives, have an electrician inspect the pool, spa or hot tub. Make sure all the equipment is in accordance with both the local codes and the National Electrical Code. Follow up with any necessary upgrades or repairs.
Locations. According to the NEC, all electrical wires and junction boxes need to be at least five feet away from the water. It is also important to know where all electrical switches and circuit breakers are located in case of an emergency.
Battery-operated devices. Having electronics around the pool can be dangerous. The CPSC recommends you use battery-operated devices around water instead of cord-connected devices.
Emergency plan. Have a detailed emergency plan posted around the pool, spa or hot tub area. This plan should outline the necessary course of action you should take if someone is suffering from an electric shock.
Weather ready. Do not swim or hang out near the water before, during or after a thunderstorm. Water and lightning are a dangerous combination.

Outlets, Power Tools and Electrical Cord Safety

The CPSC recommends an annual check of outdoor electrical equipment, including:

Outlets. Check that each outlet has its own weatherproof outlet cover, and keep it closed when not in use. Also, make sure each outlet is powered by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which turns itself off if it senses a current leak or a short circuit. If you must use an outlet during wet weather, the CPSC suggests a "weatherproof while in use" cover, which keeps an outlet covered even when a cord is plugged in.
Electric garden tools. Avoid using corded power tools in wet or damp locations, advises the CPSC. The agency also suggests checking all tools for cord damage, such as cracks or exposed wires, and to make sure they are in good condition and operating properly. Use tools with insulated grips to avoid the potential of electric shock.
Extension cords. Use only extension cords that are rated for outdoor use; indoor cords can't withstand the weather conditions when they're used outdoors, and may become a fire or shock hazard. An estimated 3,300 residential fires originate from extension cords each year, according to the CPSC, so electrical cord safety precautions make good sense.

Tree Trimming and Landscaping Safety

Most experts advise leaving tree trimming to the professionals, particularly when the tree and its limbs are anywhere near a power line. But if you do plan to do some trimming, here are some safety reminders from the Electrical Safety Foundation International:

Always look up before raising a ladder or pole to make sure it won't come within 10 feet of a power line, says the Electrical Safety Foundation International; you do not have to touch a power line to be in danger.
Use wooden or fiberglass ladders outdoors; metal ladders conduct electricity.
Do not climb with tools in your hands, and be sure to wear safety equipment at all times.
Do not trim trees in dangerous weather conditions.

And an important general landscaping reminder: Call 811 before you begin any digging project. A federally mandated national number, 811 will connect you with a local call center that sends out a crew to identify underground utility lines. It's really the best way to make sure you don't inadvertently dig into one while planting a tree or shrub, or installing a deck or pool. Good electrical safety habits can help you to make sure your family, friends and neighbors are safe and free to enjoy a little outdoors time in your back yard this season. You might also like:

Prepare Your Boat for the Water

Brendan — Thu, 23 May 2013 11:00:22 +0000

Whether you have a small bass boat, a 20-foot day sailor or a comfy cabin cruiser, when summer rolls around and it’s time to get the boat back on the water, you’re going to want to be sure it’s ready to go. Nobody wants a sputtering engine or a dead battery on that first day in the water. To ensure that everything is smooth sailing when you decide to take your craft out of storage, proper boat maintenance is in order. Visual Inspection: If your boat is out of the water, check the hull for any cracks, punctures or holes and get them repaired immediately. A leak in the hull can ruin an afternoon fishing trip faster than a bout of seasickness. Mr. Clean: Wash your boat regularly. If you’re boating in saltwater, then washing after each use is especially important because you want to protect the boat’s finish from the saltwater residue. A boat with a clean hull is going to be more fuel-efficient than a boat that is coated with algae and other sea impurities. Wax On, Wax Off: If you own a fiberglass boat, then the Department of Ecology also suggests that you wax it at least once a year. Waxing will prevent surface dirt buildup and make the boat easier to clean and rinse after using. In many respects, regular boat maintenance is a lot like car maintenance. You’re going to want to check and change the oil, replace the spark plugs, and replace any cracked or damaged hoses. All filters and belts should be checked as well. Safety Precautions: Although some of the upkeep does involve making sure the boat is in good working order, maintaining a boat isn't just about tuning up the engine. It's also about making sure the vessel is equipped with the proper safety gear. According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division, operator errors account for 70 percent of boating accidents. In other words, if you’re a novice boater or simply don’t feel completely comfortable behind the wheel, take a boating course. Furthermore, as the operator of the boat, you’re responsible for making sure your vessel has enough life jackets for everyone on board and that all children are wearing them when required. State regulations vary regarding age a situations when children must wear a life jacket, so consult your local governing body for accurate information. You can also check the Reference Guide for Boating Laws for requirements by state for age and type of life jacket required for young passengers. The U.S. Coast Guard stresses the fact that carbon monoxide can hurt or kill you both inside and outside the boat. Blocked exhaust outlets, inadequately ventilated enclosures and even exhaust from other boats can all be potentially dangerous. It’s not only important to know which areas of the boat present a risk, but it's also important to know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and what you should do if anyone on board is suffering from it. A tranquil day on the water begins with proper boat maintenance and the right safety precautions. However, on a warm summer day there will be other boaters on the water besides you, so having the right insurance coverage is good way to protect your boat (and those aboard it) from the unexpected.

Safe Room: The Ultimate Secure Shelter [INFOGRAPHIC]

Brendan — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:30:37 +0000

Safety is a significant issue for every homeowner and eliminating unsafe situations inside the home should be a top priority. Proper installation and usage of electrical and gas lines, carbon dioxide and fire alarms, and window and door locks are all important for day-to-day home safety. But what about extreme conditions? Tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards and even home invasion are all examples of severe situations in which families may benefit from a safe room. What is a safe room? Simply put, a safe room is a secure, reinforced, well-stocked room where individuals can go to avoid the risks and potential dangers that may arise in other parts of a home. But how do you create a safe room in your house? Our infographic provides some ideas: [infographic]

Fuel Your Grill with Man Power [VIDEO]

Brendan — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:15:34 +0000

In Episode 5 of our web series The UnReal Adventures of Ted and Traci, our heroes are enjoying the warm summer weather. Ted fires up his gas grill for a nice outdoor meal, but only after he’s “improved” it. It turns out, jet fuel doesn’t make for great steaks, but Ted's mistake helps illustrate some basics of grill safety. Check out all episodes of this web series (new episodes added weekly): Trailer - The UnReal Adventures of Ted & Traci Episode 1 - Om on the Road Episode 2 - Up in Smoke Episode 3 - Supercharged Episode 4 – Stranded Episode 6 - Staycation Transcript: ‘Grillmeister 7000' Ted: I can’t believe the neighbors got a Grillmeister 7000—that thing costs more than our car. But don’t be jealous, Traci: I’ve been working on something even better. Ted: I made just a few adjustments to our old grill… Now it runs on manpower!! Traci: Manpower, huh? Then what’s in the tank? Ted: Just a little something I like to call JET FUEL! YEAH! Let’s get this baby fired up! Ted: Hurry up, babe! Go get the steaks! Traci: So… Wanna order a pizza? Voiceover: Don’t add fuel to the fire. Connect with me on Google+ or follow me on Twitter

King of the Grill: Serving Up Grill Safety [INFOGRAPHIC]

Brendan — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:00:34 +0000

Throughout the United States, Memorial Day signifies the start of summer. This federal holiday is observed annually to honor American soldiers who gave their lives in defense of this country. One of the grand traditions associated with Memorial Day weekend is cooking food on an outdoor grill, enjoying the weather and spending time with friends and family. Grilling and barbecue can be fun and tasty, but certain safety precautions are a must. The infographic below provides some general grill safety information, grilling tips and common pitfalls to avoid to help ensure a safe holiday weekend. [infographic]

Road Sign Colors and Shapes

Melissa — Wed, 22 May 2013 11:00:11 +0000

If you read our recent post on the history of road signs, you may recall that the first stop sign appeared in Detroit in 1915 -- but it didn’t really look anything like it does today. The New York Times reports that the first stop sign was a 2-foot square metal sheet that had black letters on a white background. The stop sign -- and many of the other signs created to help guide motorists and provide important information -- evolved over the decades into the recognizable shapes we're accustomed to today.

The Shape of Things

In 1923, the shapes of signs started to evolve. The New York Times reports that after that first, square stop sign, other signs with more sides were designed to indicate a higher level of danger. A circular sign denoted the most risk, thanks to what can be seen as its infinite number of sides. As a result, circular signs were recommended for railroad crossings. The stop sign adopted an octagonal shape, which signaled the second-highest level of danger. Diamond-shaped signs were designed to provide warnings, while rectangular signs were intended to provide information. Setting standardized shapes for certain signs made sense since lighting wasn’t always ideal at that time. The thought was that it would be easier for drivers to react to known shapes, even if they couldn’t read the signs at night.

The Black-and-White Era

Not unlike the first TV sets, this first crop of road signs didn’t offer much in the way of color. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, most early signs were white with black letters, and manufacturing limitations meant that no road sign could be bigger than a 2-foot square.

The Dawn of Color

Color is an important part of road signs today; many drivers know what a sign means simply by those factors alone. Some of those sign colors go all the way back to 1924, when officials began discussing which color combinations to use on various types of signs. One of the color combinations discussed at that point was the stop sign's now-familiar white lettering on a red background -- but those colors weren't adopted immediately. At the time, a report indicated that it was easier to see a yellow sign than a red sign at night, so when the first manuals standardizing road sign colors were introduced in the late 1920s, the stop signs were yellow. The New York Times reports that the color red has always signified the need to stop, and while red stop signs were considered early on, producing a durable, red reflective material wasn’t possible until the late 1940s or early 1950s. The nationwide change from yellow to red stop signs didn't come until a few years later in 1954, when the DOT’s manual called for a red sign with white letters.

Road Signs Today

Now, stop signs have been red for so long that many people don't remember it any other way. The colors of other types of road signs can also give an indication of their meaning. Here’s a rundown of some of the more common colors and some examples of signs you might see out on the road: [slideshow] So, now you know a little more about the shapes and colors of signs -- from the plain black-and-white square signs of the 1920s to the iconic colors and shapes of today.

Market Madness [part 2]: Handling the Hassle of an Open House

Brendan — Tue, 21 May 2013 11:00:02 +0000

Last year, my wife and I put our home up for sale. It was our “five-year house” and we were in year 11, with two growing boys and a dog crammed into a home the size of an average two-bedroom apartment. In part 1 of this series, I detailed how we took our first steps in selling our house. The next step was actually showing the house. While we were lucky that most of our showings occurred in good weather during the summer, it was still a tedious process. First, our agent booked showings as soon as our listing hit the Multiple Listing Service and various real estate agent websites. She told us that we should expect a lot of activity and interest within the first two weeks, and then it dissipates from there, with most of the activity essentially expiring after the sixth week. And boy, was she right. We had a flurry of showings the first week, seriously testing our ability to keep our home in "showable condition" with a house full of active boys and an excitable dog. One of the keys to success was the decluttering we initially did, effectively removing most of the non-essentials that often make up the normal mess. The other was the 12-hour prior notification rule we established with our agent. That gave us just enough time to prepare our house -- and our dog -- for guests. One positive from this whole situation is that while we were cleaning and decluttering, it gave us a great opportunity to create a home inventory of all our stuff, which will be helpful when we update our insurance in our new home. Individual showings were fine, as we’d make sure to leave the house for 30 minutes or so, giving the potential buyers enough time to look around. But the next step was a bit more difficult: The Open House.

Open House

Our first open house was planned for the second weekend our home was on the market. But more to the point, we ended up doing five or six open houses during our extended time on the market…that’s where the good fortune of nice weather played an important role. While leaving your home for two to four hours during an open house is a minor inconvenience, doing it a half-dozen times with two kids and a dog during a busy summer full of sports and activities can be disruptive, to say the least. It’s a situation many home sellers may run into, and while going to a kid-friendly restaurant or birthday party center isn’t an option with a dog in tow, we came up with a great solution: On most "open house afternoons," we took the whole family to the local forest preserve park and enjoyed some quality family time in the great outdoors. On rainy days, we kept the dog at home in a secure pet carrier, and took the kids to local museums. Making the best of what can be a difficult aspect of the selling process can help your family handle an extended selling cycle. I can say with confidence that putting a little thought into the time we needed to be away from home during open houses made all the difference in both our morale and our ability to work through a longer-than-expected selling cycle.

Check out parts 3 and 4 of Market Madness in coming weeks for more insight into selling your home.

Financial Protection When You’re Between Jobs

Brendan — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:03 +0000

When you’re between jobs—whether due to a layoff or a decision to leave—you may have special financial challenges to consider. Your income is likely less than it was while you were working, but that doesn’t have to mean derailing your retirement goals or foregoing insurance. There are some strategies that can help you keep your retirement savings and insurance coverage working for you, even when you’re not. Retirement Savings When you leave a job (voluntarily or otherwise), you typically have a few options for the 401(k) at your old employer. If the employer allows it, you can leave the funds where they are. Another option is to roll over your 401(k) into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) so that the money continues working for you in a tax-deferred manner. Liquidating your 401(k) is an option but there may be tax implications and early distribution penalties. It is best to consult your tax professional before making any distribution decisions. To continue contributing to an IRA or 401(k), you need earned income, such as a salary or profits from a small business. Unemployment benefits are not considered earned income by the IRS, so if that’s your only source of income, you would have to temporarily pause contributions to your IRA or 401(k). However, if your spouse has earned income, he or she could potentially bump up retirement contributions to compensate. If you re-enter the job market, you could resume contributions to your own retirement account. If you’re 50 or older, you can also make catch-up contributions to a 401(k). Insurance Depending on the size of the company, employees who are laid off or leave a job voluntarily often have the right to continue their health care coverage for a specified period of time through COBRA. However, health insurance doesn’t cover everything, especially in the case of an accident or serious illness, so a supplemental health insurance policy could help fill coverage gaps such as co-pays, deductibles and non-medical care (transportation to treatment, for instance). Knowing your medical costs would be covered can help provide peace of mind during an uncertain time. Premiums for supplemental health insurance can start as low as $20 per month. Life insurance is another area to consider. If you had a policy through your previous employer, you may want to consider buying an individual policy to ensure that your family would be able to cover their daily expenses if the unthinkable happened. A permanent life insurance policy can accumulate cash value over time so that you might be able to take a loan or withdrawal if needed. Want to know more about your retirement and insurance options? Contact an Allstate personal financial representative to discuss your needs.

Fad or Fab? 4 Unusual New Car Features

Melissa — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:00:41 +0000

Pop-up headlights? Hidden gas caps? Record players? These may not come standard on the car you drive, but automakers have been innovating with quirky features like these for decades. While you probably don't have a third headlight on your car, as the 1948 Tucker Sedan did, some of your 21st century ride's standard features might have seemed like sci-fi 65 years ago. Below, we take a look at some interesting features on cars of the 2000s. Who knows -- maybe they're the wave of the future!

MINI's Openometer

Ever wonder how much time you’d spend with the top down if you owned a convertible? Well, if you buy a MINI Cooper Convertible or a MINI Cooper Roadster, you won't have to guess. MINI's Openometer measures and displays how long you've driven with the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin -- let's just hope it doesn't rain.

Kia Soul's Optional Speaker Lights

The Kia Soul stands out with its unique, boxy look, and it also proves that you don’t need to spend luxury car money to get a stereo system that adds some visual appeal. The Soul’s optional Infinity Audio System comes with speakers that light up, and can be set to pulsate with the beat of the music. The system is also created to sound as good as it looks, with a central speaker, a Subwoofer and an external amplifier.

Volkswagen’s Kaeferfach

[caption id="attachment_4716" align="alignright" width="300"] Flikr/sarahlarson[/caption] Everyone can spot the Volkswagen Beetle's iconic shape and flower vase, but it has some other features that may not be so well known. For example, have you ever heard of the Kaeferfach? It's the Beetle's second, upper glove box (I used mine for my sunglasses!). It's a fitting name, too -- if you don't speak German, "Kaeferfach" means "Beetle bin."

Cadillac's Safety Alert Seat

If you like that vibrating chair on display at Brookstone, Cadillac’s Safety Alert Seat might get your attention. Available on the Cadillac ATS and XTS, the seat vibrates to help alert drivers to potential hazards on the road. If you get too close to another car while you’re parallel parking, for example, or if you drift out of your lane, the seat will vibrate to alert you of the issue. Unfortunately, Shiatsu massage isn’t an option yet. Whether it's for style or safety, fun or entertainment, these are some of the innovations you can see at car dealerships today As automakers continue to innovate, do you think any of these unusual features will become the new standard?

Do You Know What to Do After a Car Accident? [INFOGRAPHIC]

Melissa — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:00:54 +0000

You're driving in bumper-to-bumper, stop-and-go traffic during rush hour on a Tuesday evening. Just as you glimpse your long-awaited exit, the car in front of you slams on the brakes. You stop just in time -- but then the car behind you slams into your back bumper. Oh no! You've been in an accident! Would you know what to do if this happened to you? There are a lot of things to consider after a wreck on the road, and knowing what steps to take can help ease the stress of an already nerve-wracking situation. Check out the infographic below for some helpful information: Looking for more information about car accidents and insurance? Check out the Tools and Resources section of Allstate.com.