Relocate! Magazine Fall 2018 by Publish in Paradise

Volume 3 Issue 4 | Fall 2018

Quick Ways to Freshen Up Your Home for Fall

Be Prepared to Weather the Storm A Handy Guide to Home Remodeling 6 Safety Tips When Moving with Kids

Relocate! Magazine is published by Publish in Paradise, a subsidiary of Rechovot LLC For advertising inquiries, please visit us online or email ads@publishinparadise.com © 2018 Publish in Paradise PublishinParadise.com

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Publisher: Angela J. Willard relocate@publishinparadise.com

On the cover: For cover story see page 4. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Be sure to read Relocate! Magazine for many great articles on preparedness, relocating, places to relocate too and so much more. The digital issues are free.

This time of year the buzzword is “preparedness” because the storms are coming. As I work toward publishing this issue, some storms have already hit and parts of N. Carolina are flooded. People and pets are stranded because they wouldn’t or couldn’t leave and now are in need of help. If I could be there to help, I would. If you can be there to help, please go. If you are in an area that has been threatened by storms or other “natural” disaster, please be prepared for what is coming your way. Many people may think, It wont hit us here, or, It wont be as bad as they say, or even, I wont leave my home. Many people regret those inaccurate assumptions and decisions, some even die. People have died. Don’t let that be your story, get prepared, leave the area and live to tell about it.

Please be safe,

RelocateMag.us

Departments Preparedness Issue 4

Be Prepared to Weather the Storm

16 Giving For Good: Make an Impact in Your Community

Preparedness 6 8 Tips for Safer Power Tool Performance 8 A Handy Guide to Starting a Home Remodel

Your New Home 11 Energy Savers that Make 'Cents' 14 Quick Ways to Freshen Up Your Home for Fall

On the Move 15 Home Sweet Home? 6 Safety Tips When Moving with Kids

Relocate! Magazine | Fall 2018 | ÂŠ 2018 Publish In Paradise | RelocateMag.us | 3

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Be Prepared to Weather the Storm

or many people, inclement weather can be frightening. When the wind is blowing, the rain is pouring and the trees are rustling, it can be hard to remain calm. However, it's important to remember certain safety tips and how to use tools properly in case of emergency. Having a plan in place before a storm, hurricane or tornado hits can help make sure everyone is on the same page and ensure safety in the event of a sudden power outage. Portable generators can serve many purposes after severe weather strikes, including providing power needed for safe food storage, hot water, lights, radios and televisions. However, portable generators emit potentially deadly carbon monoxide - which is a tasteless, colorless, odorless gas - making it vital to keep safety in mind when using one as a backup power source around your house or near family members.

The Portable Generator Manufacturers' Association recommends these tips for being informed of potential hazards and

safely operating equipment in the event of a storm or natural disaster:

● Never run a portable generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. ● Always direct the engine exhaust away from occupied structures. ● Be aware that you cannot smell, see or taste carbon monoxide so proper use of portable generators is crucial.

● If you feel sick, dizzy or weak while using your portable generator, get to fresh air immediately and call 911 for emergency medical attention. ● Always refer to your generator owner's manual for further information about safe operation and potential hazards. ● To avoid dangerous carbon monoxide accumulation, always "Take It Outside," which means never running a portable generator indoors, such as in garages, basements, crawl spaces, breezeways, sheds or other partially enclosed spaces.

Although it is impossible to completely eliminate the safety hazards associated with improper generator use, new models that comply with the ANSI/PGMA G300 2018 standard offer enhanced safety through carbon monoxide sensors and shut-off features that help protect against carbon monoxide accumulation.

Bringing you stories from around our nation... individuals, families, villages in need of relocation; Affects of Climate Change on our coast lands; Where to Relocate to; How to relocate; and more… Articles on the blog: ● Road Trip Ready ● How to Prepare for an Active Shooter Incident in Your Community ● Keeping Your Home Secure ● Top Tips for Staying Connected While In-Flight ● How to Prepare Inevitabilities

for

Life’s

● 10 Smart Power-outage Hacks for Homeowners ● Be Prepared for Inclement Weather

Always be aware of your surroundings and educate yourself on how to properly use necessary tools and equipment in case of a storm. Learn more about safe portable generator usage at pgmaonline.com or takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.

● Create a Plan for Crisis ● Tips to Safely Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Cooler Months ● 10 Tips for Urban Gardening ● How Rural Women Can Make an Impact

Sources: Portable Generator Association | Family Features

Manufacturers'

relocatemag.us/blog-on-the-move

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

8 Tips for Safer Power Tool Performance For many homeowners, a list of seasonal chores and home improvement projects can add up to a whole lot of work. Power tools often get called on for heavy use to whittle away at that list, but the batteries used to power these devices can pose certain risks. Lithium-ion batteries have become quite common due to their efficiency, energy storage capacity, durability and safety. These batteries' higher energy potential in a smaller battery makes them ideal for cordless power tools, but higher energy density also means higher potential for damage when misused.

While they offer great versatility and portability, batteries also need to be handled properly to prevent potential dangers. Safe, proper use of lithium-ion batteries from the original tool manufacturer is key to preventing batteryrelated accidents. Before operating a battery-powered tool, heed this advice from the experts at the Power Tool Institute, a leading voice on power tool safety issues and standards for the industry.

6 | Relocate! Magazine | Fall 2018 | ÂŠ 2018 Publish In Paradise | RelocateMag.us

Know

that

batteries

are

interchangeable. It's important to only use batteries and chargers from the original power tool manufacturer. Original manufacturer batteries are specifically engineered and tested for use with the tools and chargers from the original manufacturer.

Always transport and store lithium-ion batteries as instructed in the owner's manual.

Avoid contact with metal objects, such as keys, coins, screws and nails, and liquids, which present safety hazards. Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage, such as crushing, cuts or punctures. Do not use a battery that has received a sharp blow, been dropped or is damaged.

Never modify, disassemble or tamper with a battery. The performance of damaged or modified batteries can be unpredictable and dangerous.

mindful

abnormal

Do not immerse the battery or allow any fluids to flow inside. Conductive liquid ingress, such as water, can cause damage resulting in fire or explosion. Store your battery in a cool, dry place, away from combustible and flammable items.

Aftermarket batteries may not be tested to the same standards as original manufacturer batteries and therefore come with additional hazards that can result in fire, property damage or personal injury.

unusual LED activity when placed on a charger, liquid leakage from the battery or melted plastic anywhere on the pack. These are indications of an internal problem.

not

When

disposing

lithium-ion

battery, never throw it into the trash or a municipal recycling bin, as it can become a fire hazard. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or place it in a receptacle specifically designed for recycling batteries. If your lithium-ion battery is damaged, contact the manufacturer.

For more information on safe battery use, storage and disposal for power tools, visit TakeChargeOfYourBattery.com, or find more tips for safe and proper operation of your power tools at PowerToolInstitute.com.

battery

behaviors such as failure to fully charge or hold a charge, longer-than-usual charging times, overheating, a noticeable drop in performance,

Source: Power Tool Institute | Family Features

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A Handy Guide to Starting a Home Remodel

Apprehension and inexperience keep many homeowners from pursuing renovation projects that would make their homes more functional, enjoyable and comfortable. Getting your hands dirty on the front end - with some planning and preparation - is the best blueprint for a successful home remodeling project. To help you start your remodel on the right track, consider these tips from Gary White with JCPenney Home Services.

accomplish with your renovation. At the least, begin to outline rough ideas to discuss with an expert. Reaching out to contractors before you've determined a basic idea for your project can waste time and money. Spend time listing the features you must have, as well as some nice-tohaves if budget allows. Also think about overall functionality, design and layout. If you get overwhelmed or need ideas, don't hesitate to turn to online showrooms or magazines for inspiration.

Start with a Plan

Set a Budget

Although it may sound obvious, the first step really is to decide what you hope to

If the sky is the limit, skip ahead, but if you're like most homeowners, money

8 | Relocate! Magazine | Fall 2018 | ÂŠ 2018 Publish In Paradise | RelocateMag.us

matters. Have a clear idea of what you can afford to invest in your renovation before you get started, and if necessary, research the financing options available to you. Look for financing that provides deferred interest or low monthly payments to help manage the project cost. Setting a clear budget can help keep your contractors accountable, and it goes a long way toward ensuring you can enjoy your finished project without regret.

you get the best value, but also to find someone whose work, style and experience is most in line with the needs of your project. After all, this person will be a big part of your life during a fairly stressful time period. Always check references and verify the contractor's standing with local associations.

Draw up the Plans To help set your plan in motion, there are numerous online tools you can utilize to simplify each step of the process including design, budgeting and more. If you're planning a home remodel, a comprehensive resource like JCPenney Home Services offers a one-stop-shop for bathroom remodeling, countertops, custom window treatments, flooring, heating and cooling, water heaters and whole-home water treatment. You can find unique landing pages for each service that provides product information, complimentary inhome consultations and online pricing quotes at JCPenneyhomeservices.com.

Involve a Professional Unless you have the time and skills, you'll want a licensed and insured contractor to lead the project when you're ready to get your renovation in motion. It can be wise to solicit multiple bids, not only to ensure

Get Ready for Work Remember that you'll need to create a work environment that is safe for your contractors and protects your valuable possessions. Establish a clear path to the project space for easy access and removal of debris. Furniture, appliances, room furnishings, valuables and breakable items should be removed from both the path to the work site and the work site itself. If your renovation project will involve an essential room, such as the kitchen or a bathroom, make alternate arrangements such as creating a makeshift kitchen with the bare necessities in another part of the house. (Continued on page 10)

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(Continued from page 9)

It's an engineered product made mostly from up to 93 percent quartz, a nonporous natural stone, combined with a

Countertops 101 Kitchens and bathrooms are among the most common renovation projects, and countertops are often a focal point of these redesigns. However, choosing the right countertop can be overwhelming. To help make the difficult decision a little simpler, JCPenney Home Services experts offer insight on two of the most popular choices:

small amount of binder and color. Small particles of glass or reflective metal flakes can also be added to some quartz designs to achieve a more unique look. The result is an attractive slab that can be made in a wide variety of tones and colors, and can be finished to duplicate high gloss polished stone. Quartz is one of the most durable

Granite countertops have long been the mainstay of a beautiful kitchen or bathroom. Granite is a natural stone, quarried from large stone deposits around the world. It can have many different variations of patterns and colors, giving each slab a unique appearance that is visually rich and dynamic. In addition to its distinctive beauty and classic elegance, granite is also extremely durable. Granite is highly resistant to heat and scratches and, with proper sealing, offers good water and stain resistance and is easy to clean. Granite typically needs to be sealed, both prior to installation and at least once per year. If properly maintained, a granite countertop will last for as long as you own your home, making it a potential long-term investment. Quartz is another popular choice for countertops due to its durability, stain resistance and ease of maintenance.

countertop materials and one of the easiest to maintain. It is highly resistant to heat, water and stains, including stains from coffee, wine, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar and more. Unlike granite, quartz does not need to be sealed, making it easier to maintain over time.

To aid in the planning process without the need for a salesperson, a resource like the Countertop

Wizard

JCPenneyhomeservices.com

at lets

you

scope out the project and order samples online.

Simply

enter

measurements,

browse and select materials and options to get instant quotes.

Sources: JCPenney Home Services | Family Features

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A home that operates efficiently isn't just better for the environment. Ensuring your home systems are as efficient as possible can also help reduce the financial burden of maintaining your home throughout the year. These tips from Gary White with JCPenney Home Services can serve as areas of focus for lowering your energy bills and lessening your appliances' negative impact on the environment.

home energy drain, so it's an area that deserves attention when you're looking to upgrade for efficiency. To reduce energy use from your hot water heater, try taking shorter showers and switching to cold water for some washing machine wash and rinse cycles. Other options include turning down the thermostat on your heater, adding insulation or purchasing a newer, more efficient model.

Heating and Cooling Water Heaters The cost of heating water for bathing, laundry and kitchen use is a common

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as much as 40 percent of a home's energy expenses come from the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)

Relocate! Magazine | Fall 2018 | ÂŠ 2018 Publish In Paradise | RelocateMag.us | 11

system, also known as the heating and cooling system. Like appliances and other mechanical features of your home, over time, the heating and cooling system becomes less efficient. Regular seasonal service like appropriately changing out the air filter can help ensure your system performs at its best, but once its life expectancy has passed, a new unit is usually the more cost-effective solution in the long run. Understanding your options is important because these systems represent a meaningful investment. There are a lot of potentially overwhelming options and you want to be sure you get the right system for your home. A consultation with an expert, such as those you can find at JCPenney Home Services, can help you determine the proper size and functions necessary to effectively manage your home's climate, as well as assist in exploring the latest technologies and products. For example, heat pumps, which were once reserved for more moderate climates, are now a cost-efficient solution for homes where temperatures dip lower. Another option that is relatively new but growing in popularity is known as a minisplit system. These systems let you customize the temperature settings in various spaces, enhancing personal comfort and allowing you to focus your energy use on the parts of your home that need it most. Learn more about these and other energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions at jcpenneyhomeservices.com.

Thermostats While servicing or replacing an HVAC system may be the obvious change when it comes to conserving energy, you can also see reductions by using an upgraded thermostat,

such

"smart"

connected model. These devices can help you monitor the temperature setting in your home while maximizing efficiency. For example, a connected thermostat that's synced to your smartphone may allow you to adjust temperature settings when away from home. This way, if you forget to bump the air conditioner up a few degrees while you're gone more than a few hours, you can log-in remotely and set an appropriate temperature.

Weatherproofing A great deal of energy is lost through cracks, holes and faulty seals. Take time to assess all windows, doors and openings for air leaks, adding caulking or weather stripping where needed. Don't overlook culprits like openings around lighting and plumbing fixtures, switch plates and other electrical elements. Also assess potential losses from the fireplace, attic, garage and crawl spaces, where it's common that less attention is given to thorough sealing, and determine whether additional insulation can help contain energy.

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Take Control of Your Climate Managing your home's climate control is typically no small task or small expense. These options offer flexibility and efficiency. Heat pumps pull from the ground or outside air temperature to both heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer. Since heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they're energyefficient year-round. Hybrid systems or combination systems combine elements of both a furnace and heat pump. The more efficient heat pump runs until the outside air temperature falls below a certain level, at which point the system automatically switches the heat source to the furnace. This option is more expensive up front, but can generate significant savings in terms of monthly utility bills long-term. Ductless systems are a flexible, efficient choice for homeowners looking for simple solutions. These systems can be easily mounted on the wall or ceiling, and don't require ductwork, making them ideal for a converted attic space or room addition.

Understanding HVAC Efficiency Ratings

AFUE: An Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is important if you are purchasing an oil or gas furnace. The AFUE rating measures the amount of fuel used to heat your home against the amount of fuel wasted. A higher rating indicates a more efficient system. The more efficient your system, the less fuel it takes to heat your home, which translates into lower heating bills during the winter.

SEER: The higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), the more efficient your system and the less it will cost to heat and cool your home. Federal regulations require all new HVAC systems to have a SEER rating of 13 or higher.

HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) measures the efficiency of a heat pump when it is used to heat a home. A higher rating indicates greater efficiency and greater monthly savings on energy bills. New HVAC units are required to have a rating of 7.7 or higher.

Sources: JCPenney Home Services | Family Features

An HVAC system can be rated in a number of different ways. While some of these ratings may be confusing, it is helpful to understand what they mean.

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Quick Ways to Freshen Up Your Home for Fall

As fall weather sets in, many homeowners take advantage of cooler days to spruce up their living spaces since they're confined indoors. However, fitting all that work into a busy season filled with school, sports and other family demands isn't always easy. Fortunately, a fall refresh doesn't have to mean mountains of daunting work. These tips can provide the inspiration you need to spruce up your home without the hassle.

● Control the Clutter. Even the cleanest homes still look messy when they're disorganized, but it's an uphill battle for many to keep clutter from accumulating. Tackle the house roomby-room. Divide clutter into three piles: keep, donate and discard.

● Give Floors a Facelift. After months spent outside, it's inevitable that you've tracked some of the great outdoors back inside with you. Get your floors back in their best condition with a simple carpet washing innovation like Hoover's Smartwash Automatic Carpet Cleaner. An auto-mix feature precisely mixes and dispenses solution for optimal cleaning, and operation is as easy as it comes: push forward to wash, pull back to dry. Let the powerful brushes do all the work to gently remove embedded dirt and debris.

● Add Some Cheery Light. If you're like many homeowners, light fixtures aren't

high on your list for everyday cleaning. However, over time dust and debris build up, which can impact the quality of light. Take time to wipe down fixtures for a cleaner, brighter ambiance in minutes.

● Swap Out Bedding. Updating the textiles in a room is an easy way to instantly transform a space. Bedding for cooler seasons tends to be heavier and darker, so it's the perfect time to make a switch to sheets and comforters that are not only practical but look cozy and inviting for the cold nights ahead. Similarly, you can swap out airy drapes and window treatments for more robust versions that reflect the season while helping keep drafts at bay.

● Make DIY Cleaning Supplies. Some of the most effective cleaning agents can be made at home, so you never have to worry about running out. Make your own all-purpose spray cleaner by combining a quart of water with four tablespoons of baking soda. For extra cleaning power, you can mix vinegar with water and add a few drops of essential oils for an appealing scent. Another quick fix: Run citrus peels through the garbage disposal for an easy clean and fresh smelling kitchen. Find more tips and ideas to get your home fall-ready at hoover.com.

Home Sweet Home? 6 Safety Tips When Moving with Kids

oving to a new home can be an exciting undertaking, a fresh start that brings with it the potential for new friends, opportunities and experiences. For parents of young children, though, the process of adapting to a new home can be stressful. While you may have been proactive about averting safety hazards in your old house, a move to a new one calls for renewed awareness of anything that could potentially harm your kids. Unfortunately, the National Safety Council advises that more than a third of child injuries and deaths happen at home, with household injuries the No. 1 reason children younger than 3 visit emergency rooms. Fortunately, conscientious parents can do much to avoid such injuries. Consider these tips for keeping your children safe through the moving process and beyond. ● Be proactive about precautions. Evaluate potential safety hazards before the move even begins, buying

Source: Hoover | Family Features (Continued on page 19)

nspiration to give back to your community can come from any number of places, from a personal desire to make a difference to fulfilling a graduation requirement for community service hours. No matter the reason or the origin, chances are strong that you can make an impact. Giving back may be as simple as writing a check to an organization that works to further a mission you care deeply about. Or it may mean lending a hand to put on a fundraising event in your community. Perhaps you have a skill or talent you can share with others in the name of a good cause.

If you're committed to contributing to your community in a meaningful way, consider one of these ideas to improve the lives of those around you:

Spend Time with the Elderly Seniors often hold wisdom, knowledge and experience that younger generations have yet to accumulate. Yet, as they age, a community's oldest residents are often left alone. These days it's less common for family members to live near one another, so "adopting" an elderly resident down the street or at the local senior housing center

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is a way to help monitor his or her wellbeing and ensure personal ties to the community are maintained. Not only can this provide a valuable service for an elderly person and his or her family, it may bring you great personal satisfaction as you learn about the community's history through the eyes of someone who saw it evolve firsthand.

Donate to Nonprofits If you're concerned your budget doesn't stretch far enough to make a meaningful cash contribution, there are plenty of other ways you can donate to nonprofit organizations in your community. Volunteer hours or even gently used items like office furniture or supplies are often in

high demand. You can even donate by helping your favorite nonprofit uncover new funding opportunities. For example, the America's Farmers Grow Communities program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, provides farmers an opportunity to help a nonprofit of their choice. Eligible farmers can enroll in the program for a chance to direct a donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization. Since 2010, the program has shown a commitment to strengthening farming communities by awarding more than $29 million to nonprofits, supporting food banks, ag youth organizations, supplying essentials for the needy and acquiring life-saving emergency response equipment.

(Continued on page 18)

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(Continued from page 17)

Be a Mentor Much as you can gain valuable wisdom from elderly residents, you also likely have your own knowledge that can benefit others in your community. Consider the areas where you excel and explore how your community can benefit. You might put your athletic talents to use coaching a youth sports team, teach scouts a skill for advancement or lend your experience as a human resources professional to an organization that helps disadvantaged individuals improve their employment opportunities. If you're good with numbers, maybe volunteering as a financial advisor to a local nonprofit board is worth considering.

Help Create Future Leaders If the future vitality and well-being of your community is a priority, your giving may involve creating opportunities for future generations. Programs like America's Farmers Grow Ag Leaders, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, encourage rural youth to become the next generation of ag leaders by awarding scholarships to support their pursuit of higher education in ag-related fields of study. The scholarships are administered by the National FFA Organization, but students do not have to be FFA members to apply. Since 2014, the program has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships for students looking to study ag-related fields after high school.

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Plant Flower Beds

(Continued from page 15)

Making a community better isn't always about dollars and cents. Simply making your hometown a more enjoyable place to be is a reward you can enjoy along with your neighbors. Special beautification projects such as creating and maintaining flower beds in public spaces can help create a more welcoming, friendly environment. Other ideas include community cleanup initiatives and organizing groups to help with yardwork for those who are physically unable.

Get Involved in Schools Nearly every school district can benefit from added resources to support youth education. You may be able to help your school secure funding for a special initiative through a program such as America's Farmers Grow Rural Education, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, which allows farmers to nominate local public school districts to compete for merit-based STEM grants. Nominated schools have the opportunity to apply for a grant to fund projects that enhance science, technology, engineering and math education in their districts. Since 2011, more than $16 million has been awarded to over 900 rural school districts.

Farmers can find more ways to give back to their communities along with program information and official rules at AmericasFarmers.com. Sources: Monsanto Fund | Family Features

important tools and fixtures so you can make adjustments early rather than retrofitting. ● Switch all your blinds to the cordless variety. The string-like attachments that adjust old-style blinds are proven strangulation hazards. Replace them immediately with the cordless varieties available at major U.S. retailers. Seek the Best for Kids™ label that certifies products best suited for young children, finding more info at windowcoverings.org/window-cordsafety ● Separate and secure household chemicals. Deliberately pack anything that could hurt your kids into marked boxes that travel with you in your car instead of your moving van. Upon arrival, keep them sealed until you're ready to unpack them into locked cabinets. ● Secure furniture and TVs against tip-overs. As your furniture and heavy electronics are arranged, install safety latches to ensure they can't inadvertently fall onto young children. ● Install baby gates at staircases. Don't wait; do this as soon as you arrive on moving day. Children will be curious about their new surroundings, but at the same time unfamiliar with potential hazards. A move to your new home should be a happy time. Make sure you're keeping it that way by fully protecting your children as you make the transition. Source: BPT

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