Imagine this: a powerful storm rolls in, knocking out power and disrupting cell service. You're left feeling isolated and unsure of what's happening. This is where an emergency radio becomes your lifeline, and here's why it deserves a prime spot in your emergency preparedness kit.

Reliable Information When You Need It Most.
Forget relying on cell phones or TVs that go dark with the power. Emergency radios receive broadcasts even during outages. Local stations provide crucial updates on weather emergencies, evacuation routes, shelter locations, and any other critical information you need to stay safe.

Power Options for Every Situation.
When choosing your radio, consider your needs. Battery-powered models offer extended use, but require keeping a stock of fresh batteries. Hand-crank radios eliminate battery dependence, but require manual cranking for power. Solar-powered options offer a sustainable solution for long-term emergencies.

Weather Radios.
Take your preparedness a step further with a weather radio. These radios specialize in weather updates and warnings specific to your location. NOAA Weather Alert radios automatically activate for critical alerts, even if the radio is off. Weather Band radios require tuning to a specific station, but offer more detailed weather information.

Beyond Basic Functionality.
Many emergency radios go beyond basic functionality, offering valuable features for various situations. Look for built-in LED flashlights for navigating dark spaces, phone charging ports to keep your devices powered, and waterproof casings for protection from the elements. Some models even include emergency alert tones that help rescuers locate you, or a signaling beacon for attracting attention.

The Right Radio for You.
There's no one-size-fits-all emergency radio. Choose a model that suits your specific needs. Consider the number of devices needing charging during an outage. If portability is a priority, a compact model might be ideal. For those in remote locations where regaining power may take longer, a hand-crank or solar-powered option offers greater peace of mind.

Don't wait for disaster to strike before taking action. Invest in an emergency radio today. It's a small but powerful tool that can make a big difference in keeping you and your family informed and safe during emergencies.

Our inspectors have been busy in the field finding common (and some not so common!) home maintenance items. What’s going on in this picture? 

See all those layers? We know that this is a close-up picture, so the context may not be immediately obvious, but pictured here is a roof with four to five layers of roofing material and at least two layers of plywood. Needless to say, this is not the way to repair or replace a roof. The roofing contractor who eventually works on this project may just have their work cut out for them when it comes to removing all these layers and starting fresh. Luckily, anything can be fixed, and other than a lot of tedious work, this roof can be rehabbed to a healthy state.

Sprinkler systems are a lifesaver for keeping your lawn lush in the summer, but they require maintenance to avoid turning your yard into a swamp. Here's how to tackle some common issues:

Sunken Sprinkler Heads. Over time, soil can shift, causing heads to sink. This leads to brown spots and uneven watering. Simply adjust the pipe by digging around the head and refilling the space. Remember to be cautious while digging to avoid damaging the pipes.

Low Water Pressure. Weak sprinkler performance can be caused by low water pressure. This could signal a leak or a clog. Check for soggy areas in your lawn, which might indicate a leak. If not, inspect the line for obstructions like tangled roots. Dirty heads can also be a culprit, so regular cleaning is important.

Uneven Coverage. If your lawn has dry patches despite proper watering times, it may be time for a sprinkler head placement. Alternatively, sprinkler heads may be too close or too far apart. Consider professional help to adjust the sprinkler layout for optimal coverage.

Clogged Heads. This is a frequent problem. Mud or debris can block the nozzles and prevent proper spraying. Luckily, it's an easy fix. Turn off the system, then remove and clean the nozzles and filters before reassembling the heads. Regular cleaning at the start of the season helps prevent clogs.

Strange Noises. A buzzing sound during operation might indicate a faulty magnetic relay switch. A hammering noise could be trapped air in the pipes. For buzzing, consider replacing the switch. To remove trapped air, simply detach the sprinkler heads and turn on the water to flush it out.

By addressing these common issues, you can keep your sprinkler system functioning smoothly, saving water and money while maintaining a beautiful lawn.