Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Stop Clogged Home Gutters Faced with the prospect of another season spent precariously climbing a ladder and reaching inside to clear out debris and leaves, many homeowners are considering the installation of a gutter protection system. And with so many different types available, finding the right fit is always so easy. A gutter protection system is a cover or barrier that prevents leaves and large items, such as twigs or blownaround matter, from lodging in a home’s gutters and eventually preventing rain runoff from draining effectively. Clogged gutters and downspouts have been known to contribute to rainwater pooling around the foundation of a home, potentially causing seepage issues. Blocked gutters can also be a haven for stagnant water, which breeds mosquitoes and other insects and potentially harmful bacteria. To combat these issues, manufacturers have come up with a series of protection systems that allow water to enter the gutter while keeping debris out of it. Gutter protection systems range from do-it-yourself options to professionally installed products. There are a few different styles, and each offers their share of pros and cons. * Screen: A mesh or screen system consists of a screening material that fits inside or over the gutter. It serves as a sieve, allowing the water through but blocking leaves and debris. This system is affordable and can be a DIY project. But over a period of time the mesh itself can be blocked with a build-up of debris and will need periodic cleaning. Also, in some screened systems water can freeze up in the screen openings, causing ice dams. * Aluminum covers: There are many different aluminum options. Some work with a small crevice along the top that is narrow enough for the rainwater to enter but not allow debris inside. They may not allow as much water to enter as a mesh system because they cover a greater surface area over the gutter. Closed systems also may provide an area for insects to make nests. *Foam inserts: A relatively inexpensive protection system is a foam insert. These pieces of porous foam are fitted inside the gutter, allowing water to flow through (albeit a little more slowly) while keeping leaves out. Foam inserts are an easy do-it-yourself project and can serve as a test of the efficacy of gutter systems before a more expensive system is purchased. * Surface tension products: These are closed plastic or aluminum products where the water entry holes or channels are on the bottom and sides of the product. This way nothing can ever get clogged from above. The system works by water surface tension; the rainwater will adhere to the product and then flow into the bottom or side holes. The nose of these products may have to be kept clean or the surface tension may not occur. When it comes to gutter protection systems, there are a number of options to consider. Homeowners can experiment with different low-cost systems to see if one works before contracting to have a permanent guard put in place.
Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide A carbon monoxide (CO) detector can alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide gas, but does not prevent the deadly gas from entering your home. Protect your family from CO poisoning with these safety precautions: - Have your heating system checked and cleaned regularly - Install a fresh air intake duct into each wood-burning fireplace or stove. If that is not possible, leave a window open when either one is burning. - Ensure that all external vents (air intake vents, exhaust vents and chimneys) are clear of snow, insulation and debris. - Never idle your vehicle, operate other gasoline powered equipment, or use a barbecue in an attached garage, even if the garage door is open. For added assurance, install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. - Install a detector on all levels of your home, especially near bedrooms. - Be sure your detector bears an approved safety certification (such as a CSA or UL label) - Make sure your CO detector is installed properly and in good working order. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning Symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending on the amount inhaled and the length of time you have been exposed, your symptoms could include the following: - Low exposure: slight headache and/or shortage of breath - High exposure: severe headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, weakness, vision and hearing impairment, collapse or fainting during exertion, loss of muscle control and/or drowsiness. - Extreme exposure: unconsciousness, brain damage, or death. What to do if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning If your CO detector alarms and you experience symptoms of CO poisoning, call 911 to seek medical attention immediately. If your CO detector alarms and you suspect a problem with your fuel burning equipment, turn off the equipment, open a window and contact Manitoba Hydro at 1888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-9376) for an inspection. Space heaters can be fire hazards Before you pull out a space heater to ward off the chill on a frosty evening, be aware that they can cause fires and injuries if not used with care. Space heaters are not intended to replace a permanent heat source. If you must use a space heater temporarily, follow these simple safety precautions. - Keep space heaters at least 3 ft. away from any combustible materials such as bedding and furniture. - Read the manufacturer’s instruction manual before using any space heater. Check to make sure the heater bears the mark of a certified testing organization. - Keep space heaters away from areas with water. - Don’t use space heaters in rooms where children are unsupervised. Children may stick their fingers or other objects through the protective guards, causing burns or shock. - Avoid using an extension cord with a space heater. If you must use one, make sure it is the right wire gauge size and type for the heater and locate it to avoid a tripping hazard. - Portable heaters have hot parts that can cause sparking. Do not use them in areas where flammable liquids such as gasoline or kerosene are used or stored. - Space heaters are meant to supply supplemental heat. Don’t use them to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes. - Turn off the space heater and unplug it when not in use.
October 2011
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