Are You Prepared for A severe Storm Hitting Your Area?

Storm season may bring welcome rain, but some storms are strong enough to pack a dangerous punch. Planning ahead for this year’s wicked weather can help ensure you’re ready to weather whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

Make sure your family is ready for bad weather and potential power loss with these tips:

1. Ensure there is a working flashlight in every room, so you can safely navigate no matter what time of day the power fails or where you are. Check the battery terminals for any signs of damage or corrosion, and replace old batteries to give you the fullest charge possible. Also invest in a quality lantern or two, so if you have to hunker down for a while, you can do so with the comfort of some far-reaching light. After all, reading or playing board games is no fun by flashlight.

2. If you have advance warning of a coming storm, unplug devices that are especially susceptible to power-related damage, such as TVs and computers. In the event of storms that crop up suddenly or while you’re away from home, it’s best to keep major electronics like TVs, computers and printers plugged into a surge protector to prevent damage from flickering power or a surge when the power is restored.

3. Add a backup power source. Portable generators can provide essential power during a sustained power outage. An option like the Briggs & Stratton Q6500 QuietPower Series inverter generator delivers plenty of power to keep essential appliances and electronics running for up to 14 hours on a single tank of gas. The quiet, lightweight generator has four GFCI 120V-20A outlets, one 120V-240V locking outlet and two USB outlets for flexibility to power whatever you need most. Learn more at briggsandstratton.com and visit TakeYourGeneratorOutside.com to learn more about safely operating a portable generator.

4. During a storm, keep the family together in one safe location. That way you can quickly communicate if you need to make an abrupt change, such as taking more protective cover. It also minimizes the possibility of injury from making your way through the home in the dark trying to locate family members.

Severe seasonal storms are the norm across many parts of the country. Planning ahead for potential problems, like power outages, can help ensure you weather the storm safely.

What Steps Are You Taking to Secure Your Future?

Although retirement is a milestone for all working adults, decades of hard work may not pay off if you haven’t planned for your financial needs once a regular paycheck stops coming.

According to research by the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI), millions of Baby Boomers stepping into their retirement years have unrealistic expectations and lack a full understanding of the danger of running out of money during retirement. However, the challenges do not stop with Baby Boomers. A recent study indicated 47 percent of Gen-Xers and more than half of Millennials believe a secure retirement is beyond their reach.

“Most people recognize the need to grow their wealth before retirement, but getting there isn’t always a clear path,” said Cathy Weatherford, IRI president and CEO. “Starting early and taking a holistic approach to financial planning is truly essential for a safe and dignified retirement.”

Experts generally concur that it’s never too early to begin planning for retirement, but depending on your stage of life, your approach may vary. Consider this advice from the experts at IRI to get on a path toward financially secure retirement.

Student
Forming good money habits can set you up for a lifetime of success. An act as simple as putting spare change in a jar can help you start saving. Talk to adults you trust about how to create a budget and work toward a financial goal. Auto insurance and cell phone bills are important expenses to factor into your budget.

Building a career
Once you have a solid budget, stick to it and set aside some money to save. Compound interest adds up over time and the earlier you start compounding, the better. Credit will also start to play more of a factor in your life, as major expenses like buying a house or car, or starting a business rely greatly on your credit.

Mid-career
At this stage, your employer may offer a retirement savings plan. Whether you have various investments to manage or not, you should start to look at your building your portfolio and retirement plan. This mid-career life stage is a good time to set a retirement savings goal, and now is also the time to consider hiring a financial advisor.

A professional can help you explore less understood but worthwhile approaches to holistic retirement planning such as annuities. Annuities are essentially insurance contracts that come in different types and offer several options to meet a variety of financial objectives. They are a guarantee of income as you age.

Late career
At this stage, you probably have a better idea as to when you will be able to retire, but it’s important to review your savings on an annual basis and make adjustments, if needed, to stay on track. As you approach retirement, you’ll want to research Social Security, Medicare and long-term care options to ensure you have a comprehensive view of your future finances.

Ready for retirement
If you haven’t already done so, the time has come to better research your Social Security benefits (and when it’s best to start accessing them), Medicare coverage and long-term care options. This is the time to start making some choices, such as whether you will downsize your home and how to eliminate as much debt as possible. One of the more complex aspects surrounding retirement can be determining which of your accounts to tap and in what order, and a professional can help guide you.

Explore more resources and tools to aid your retirement planning at retireonyourterms.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Home upgrades that reduce energy reliance

Enhancing your home’s energy-efficient features is a savvy way to make the space more livable while also making a smaller impact on the environment and your bank account.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the average American homeowner spends about $2,000 a year on energy for heating, cooling and other power needs throughout the house. However, inefficiencies caused by poorly operating systems, drafts and other energy drains may account for as much as 10-20 percent of wasted money each year.

Whether your motivation is reducing home energy expenses, creating a more earth-conscious lifestyle or both, there are numerous ways you can make a significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency.

Windows
Faulty seals and cracks are responsible for as much as 20 percent of air infiltration into or out of the home, according to U.S. Department of Energy data. Windows are a major culprit for these types of leaks.

If a complete window replacement is out of your budget, there are still numerous ways you can improve the energy efficiency of existing windows. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that adding storm windows can reduce the amount of heat lost through windows by as much as 25-50 percent. Caulking and adding weather stripping around windows can also make a noticeable difference, as can window coverings such as blinds or drapes that minimize the transfer of heat and cold through window panes.

If you add new windows, there are several variables to consider. Generally, the goal is to optimize heat gain during colder months and reduce heat gain in the summer. Energy performance ratings can help you understand how particular windows transfer heat and light so you can make the best choices for your home’s location, including the climate and orientation to the sun.

Doors
Like windows, doors, and especially their perimeters, are a common source of lost energy. Poor insulation due to faulty installation or simply wear over time can contribute to energy loss.

Aside from ensuring a properly installed, insulated and sealed doorway, the door itself can also make a difference when it comes to energy efficiency. For example, foam insulated entry doors offer greater energy conservation than wooden alternatives. Also remember that proper sealing and installation applies to all access points, including garage doors. For doors with large glass panes, such as patio doors, look for options that include a thermal break and multiple layers of glass to reduce energy transfer.

Fifth Wall (a.k.a., the Ceiling)
An often overlooked home element, but one homeowners and interior designers are increasingly turning attention to, is the ceiling, affectionately dubbed the “fifth wall.” Not only does this surface offer a blank slate for introducing new style to a room, it’s also an ideal space to integrate energy-efficient features such as skylights.

“Skylights bring much more than natural light into a space. They give occupants the feeling of being outdoors with elements like a sky view, gentle breezes and the smell of fresh air,” said Ross Vandermark, national product manager for Velux America.

Skylights engage all of the senses while providing balanced, natural light that reduces reliance on powered light and ventilation fixtures. In addition, skylights can work in concert with vertical windows to create the “chimney effect” where cool, fresh air enters through vertical windows and warm, stale air escapes from the skylights, cooling your home without using electricity.

Some models like the Velux No Leak Solar Powered Fresh Air skylights, which along with installation costs are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit, are powered by solar energy, making them even more efficient. Additional features can further enhance the energy-saving benefits of installing skylights. For example, for added flare and light control, homeowners can add blinds to skylights, choosing from more than 100 colors and styles. Many models also offer remote control operation for convenience in raising and lowering the blinds and even opening skylights to let in fresh air.

Learn more about making the fifth wall part of your energy-saving plan at whyskylights.com.

HVAC System
Climate control accounts for as much as half of the average home’s annual energy costs, so while it’s a behind-the-scenes home feature, it’s an important one.

An outdated heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, or a system that isn’t big enough or strong enough for your home’s footprint, will draw more energy than necessary to maintain a desirable temperature. Regular service can help keep systems operating smoothly, but eventually all HVAC systems need replacing.

A consultation with a certified technician can help you determine the right system for your home, as well as supplemental heating and cooling options like attic fans that can reduce your overall energy reliance.

Other Vulnerabilities
Keep in mind that leaks and cracks represent a substantial volume of lost energy, and even after windows and doors are sealed there are still plenty of places for air leaks to occur.
Common problem spots include attics and crawl spaces, as well as fireplaces and ductwork or ventilation systems. Eliminate drafts and add insulation to reduce energy loss through these sources.

Optimize Energy Usage
If you’re uncertain about where improvements may be necessary to increase your home’s energy efficiency, an energy audit is a good place to start. Learn more about how to evaluate your home, including which assessments you can tackle alone and what areas may require expert advice, at energy.gov.

City dwellers often think gardening is only for those who live in suburbs or rural communities, but planting an urban garden can be easy. Whether you are planting a garden for yourself or your family, you can do your part to create a more sustainable and green future.

These simple steps recommended by Arjan Stephens, executive vice president at Nature’s Path Organic Foods, can help you on your way to greening your thumb and the planet:

1. No Space, No Problem: Not everyone has a backyard, roof or balcony. To overcome this issue, start a container garden. While decorative pots can be lovely, they don’t improve the quality of your plants and can be expensive. Instead, you can use a large bucket from a garden store, which is a low-cost and effective option. Or upcycle containers not in use, such as crates, old toys or paint cans.
   
   
2. Plant Selection: There are vegetable, flower and herb varieties that are easy to grow in urban spaces. When planning your garden, think about what to plant – shallow-rooted veggies, such as herbs, lettuce and radishes typically do better in confined spaces.
   
   
3. It Takes a Village: In addition to establishing your own garden, another way to plant is by getting involved with community gardens. Each year, Nature’s Path Food’s Gardens for Good program supports community gardens that make fresh, organic food more accessible in local neighborhoods. Three $15,000 grants are available to gardens that demonstrate high community support and a viable plan for the urban agriculture project. 
   
   
4. Plant Right: Potting your plants takes a few simple steps. Put some gravel in the bottom of your container to help with drainage and fill with soil, tamping it a bit. Leave 1 inch at the top for watering. Tamp the soil after the plants are in place and water gently.
   
   
5. Portable Planters: An advantage of container gardens is that they allow you to easily move them in and out of the sun. If your plants seem to dry out in one window area, you can try different areas to adjust to what works best.
   
   
6. Grow Up: Small spaces make it ideal to grow vertically, which means planting tall plants like squash, cucumbers, beans and tomatoes. 
   
   
7. Drain Gain: Whatever container you choose for your garden, remember drainage holes are essential. Without proper drainage, soil can become waterlogged and plants may die. The holes need to be large enough to allow excess water to drain out.
   
   
8. Water Wise: Hand water every morning. Once the plants are large and summer is hot, they will probably need watering in the evening, too. A little afternoon shade can keep them from drying out too quickly.
   
   
9. Soil Smart: A common mistake urban gardeners make is not making sure their soil is good quality. While those made with pesticides promise great results, they are loaded with chemicals. Go for organic soil and grow well from the beginning.
   
   
10. Have Fun: Gardening not only results in food or flowers, it is a great way to relieve stress, have fun and get in touch with nature. Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t experience the joy of eating what you grow.
    

Grab your container, select your seeds and see how beautiful, nutritious and delicious your results could be. Find more details about Gardens for Good and urban gardening at naturespath.com.

Whether you’re hitting the open road for a leisurely cruise or simply spending more time in your car keeping up with a fast-paced summer, you want your vehicle at its best when it comes to safety, style and comfort.

The change of seasons is a great time to give your car some special attention to ensure you can confidently roll right through summer. Start by running through a checklist to ensure your car’s safety features are in good working order. Test headlights, tail lights and turn signals, and check fluid levels, topping off or replacing as needed. Also be sure tires are properly inflated, and inspect seat belts for any imperfections that may hinder performance.

If you’re going to arrive safely, why not go in style, too? Keeping your car sparkling clean not only protects finishes inside and out, it’s the easiest way to make your ride look great. Let your personality show with subtle touches like seat covers or license plate wraps bearing your favorite sports team or college.

And don’t forget comfort. Have visors ready to block harsh sun rays, and be sure your air conditioner is ready to deliver a refreshing blast of cool air. Add an air freshener with a subtle summery scent, and don’t forget to throw a light blanket in the trunk so you’re ready when a cool evening breeze kicks up.

Make the most of your summer on the move with these ideas that make caring for your car a cinch.

Freshen up your ride

Allergens are everywhere. In fact, the air in your car could be up to six times dirtier than the air outside. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your car’s cabin air filter, pick up a FRAM Fresh Breeze cabin air filter and do some quick and easy DIY — in as little as 15 minutes — to protect your family from breathing dirt, dust and allergens. Visit FRAMFreshBreeze.com for simple instructions and to find the right cabin air filter for your family’s vehicle.

Style that shines
Now you can achieve the million dollar look of Barrett-Jackson auctions at home. Barrett-Jackson’s new Premium Auto Care line includes washes, waxes and detailers formulated with synthetic hydrophobic polymers for easy application and genuine Carnauba wax. Learn how you can achieve this long-lasting finish and brilliant deep wet look shine at www.barrett-jacksonautocare.com. Barrett-Jackson Premium Auto Care products are available at fine retailers nationwide, including Pep Boys, Walmart, Menards and select Home Depots, and through online retailers including Amazon.

Road trip ready

A road trip is a fun way to enjoy a summer getaway, while providing ultimate flexibility to keep your own schedule and pace. Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these recommendations from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pre-trip checklist before hitting the road:

• Check the brake system, and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
• Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. Dirty air filters can waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.
• Check hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Underinflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Easy ways to accessorize your ride

Simple accessories can add fun and function to your daily commute or a summertime trek across the state. Keep these auto additions in mind and you’ll be stocked up for wherever the road takes you.

• Seat covers. A day at the sandy beach or a messy camping trip is no match for a seat cover. Available in a variety of colors to suit individual styles and preferences, seat covers not only protect your upholstery from harsh pool chemicals or gritty sand, they also shield your skin from hot, sun-soaked materials.
• Floor mats. Make cleanup simple with quality floor mats. Especially helpful for families, they help reduce floor messes with a simple shake or a quick vacuum.
• Trash can. Trips big or small can bring about plenty of trash. Have a handy place to stash it with a convenient receptacle. Options include units that fit within cup holders, tie around the head rest and even clip to the interior door.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (family in car)

There’s almost nothing better than the feeling of warm air on your skin and the allure of time spent outdoors camping, barbecuing and relaxing with friends and family.

To enjoy these summer activities to the fullest, it’s important to take necessary precautions – especially when it comes to the use of easily transportable and convenient portable generators. 

Whether you’re working the grill in the backyard or enjoying a more remote location for a weekend camping trip, having access to electricity is a must for both high-tech gadgets and simple necessities like electronics, lights, and cooking equipment.  

“Some of our most beloved summer traditions can be even more enjoyable with electricity from a portable generator, but there are some notable risks,” said Susan Orenga, executive director of the Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association (PGMA). “Proper handling and taking the appropriate safety precautions can help ensure that users fully appreciate the benefits of portable power.”

Always remember that since you can’t smell, see or taste carbon monoxide, which is emitted through portable generator exhaust and is potentially fatal, proper use of portable generators is crucial. These tips can help you provide power to your summer plans without risking safety.

• Always read the owner’s manual before operating a portable generator to ensure you understand all critical information regarding safe operation and potential hazards.
• Place portable generators downwind from your gathering, and point the engine exhaust away from yourself and others.
• Avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning by taking your portable generator outside. Never run one indoors or in partially-enclosed spaces – such as garages, basements, crawl spaces, breezeways or sheds – as open air is required for the gasses to dissipate. Learn more at takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.
• Know the warning signs of possible carbon monoxide poisoning, which can include headache, dizziness, nausea, fainting, shortness of breath and general weakness. If you feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a portable generator, get to fresh air immediately and call 911 for emergency medical attention.

While safely using your portable generator in an open-air environment, be sure to follow other simple safety tips like using heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor use. While storing a portable generator, safely store fuel outside of living areas in labeled, non-glass containers.

Keeping power up and running during outdoor recreation time is convenient and, at times, necessary. By following these safety guidelines, portable generators can be the perfect companion for summer fun. Find more information about safely operating a portable generator at pgmaonline.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images