7 Winter Water Conservation Tips

Although the 'Godzilla' El Nino is predicted for this winter season, we are still in a drought and need to conserve water.

Photo Credit: Notned Photo via Compfight cc

Here are some water conservation tips from saveourwater.com to keep in mind this winter!

• Check for leaks
• Install low-flow showerheads
• Consider investing in a rain barrel to collect rain water to be used for watering plants.
• Keep showers to 5 minutes
• Run the dishwasher and washing machines with full loads
• Fill the sink when hand washing dishes
• Do not use the toilet as a wastebasket

For more tips on conserving water, you can check out saveourwater.com's blog here.

Bring on the Rain - Just Not in Your House

Not everyday in California is all sunshine (but it sure feels like it), and we forget to prepare for the rain. There is talk of El Nino returning to California in the fall and winter. The Los Angeles Times calls it the ‘Godzilla’ El Nino. Here at Kaplan Construction, we want you to be prepared for this weather shift with a few tips.

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6 things to check to make sure your home is ready for rain:

1. Gutters
   Clogged gutters could cause water to remain stagnant in places around the house. This will cause the soil to soften around your home, and potentially damage your house’s foundation.
   
   
2. Roof
   Any cracks or damage on your roof may cause leaks in your house
   
   
3. Ceilings
   This will be a good confirmation if there is a roof leak or any other type of leak that may be fixed before the rain arrives.
   
   
4. Doors and Windows
   Make sure doors and windows can close properly. Water will be able to seep in if not properly sealed and shut.
   
   
5. Decks
   Make sure your deck has been checked and resealed. Water, especially, can cause your deck to rot and deteriorate.
   
   
6. Outdoor Items
   Make sure to store outdoor items properly, such as garden tools and BBQ grills.

Contact Kaplan Construction at 562-495-0483 or via email to have the wood around your doors and windows stripped and resealed and/or your deck checked and resealed before the rain starts.

Sources
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-godzilla-el-nino-winter-california-20150821-htmlstory.html
http://www.wikihow.com/Prepare-Your-Home-for-the-Rainy-Season
http://www.diy.com/help-advice/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-rain/CC_npcart_2100009.art

National Preparedness Month - Week 3

Week 3 (September 13-19) of National Preparedness Month focuses on Hurricanes. Although California almost never experiences hurricanes, this may be helpful with all the El Nino forecasts. This week alone, the forecast for Long Beach has rain tonight and tomorrow.

Here are 3 quick tips to prepare for hurricanes:

• Make a plan – specific meeting locations, emergency contacts, and procedures
• Make a kit – organize a supply kit with basic survival items
• Protect your home – secure items and make sure insurance is up to date

For the complete detailed list, go to http://www.mnn.com/family/protection-safety/sponsorstory/6-tips-to-prepare-for-a-hurricane and http://www.coastalliving.com/lifestyle/preparing-for-hurricane-irene

Feel free to contact Kaplan Construction at 562-495-0483 or via email  for any renovations or remodeling so your home is ready for El Nino.

Hello September!

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). This year’s NPM theme is Don't Wait. Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today.

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Today is the start of Week 1 (September 1-5) of NPM. Week 1 covers flooding. With talk of El Nino returning to California, this will be a great topic to cover.

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Photo Credit: NorCalFox via Compfight cc

Here are some quick tips to prepare and plan for floods:

• Store at least a 3-day supply of water per person
• Store at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food per person
• Have a flashlight
• Battery powered or hand-cranked radio
• Medication
• Multi-purpose tool
• First Aid Kit
• Family and emergency contact information
• Copies of personal documents
• Extra cash

For the complete list of supplies and things to do during and after a flood, visit the Red Cross page.

Feel free to contact Kaplan Construction at 562-495-0483 or via email  for any renovations or remodeling so your home is ready for El Nino.

Source: http://www.ready.gov/september