If you have one or more areas in your yard that hold water after a rainfall and want to solve this problem forever, this piece of information will be useful to you in more than just a way.

Before we read any further, it is important to note that filling the area(s) with topsoil will only shift the water to another area and planting shrubs in a wet area to dry it up will kill the plant.

One of the easiest ways to get rid of standing water in your yard is through storm water catch basins already installed in backyards. If that is not the case, you can visit your local building supply center and buy a pieces of 4” perforated plastic drain pipe (preferably those coming in 100’ rolls) to allow water to enter the pipe and carrying it away.

For this, you need to dig a trench from the low area’s center to the point you intend to drain it to. It is worth noting here that idea is all about making the pipe run downhill all the way by using a simple line level to setup a string over top of the trench. It is important that you have 6” fall for every 100’ of pipe. You now need to lay the pipe in after the drench is dugged. Now, you will be expect to put a strainer into the pipe’s end portion for keeping the soil from entering the pipe and this needs to be done at the highest end of the pipe.

Once you are done with all the steps, it is time for you to use some washed stones to cover the pipe and backfill the trench with soil. It is essential that you don’t put a strainer at the end where a part of the pipe is exposed (low end).

Tags: get rid of standing water, local building supply center, plastic drain pipe

Many fires in the home are a result of carelessness and could be easily prevented. It is important to be aware of possible fire hazards around the home and to take steps to protect you and your family before hand. It’s your responsibility to be aware of the potential fire hazards at your home

Tips on how to deal with a fire at home:

• The first thing that catches fire is the roof. You should invest in the roof to get it made of wooden shingles which is fire-proof, such as one made of slate, tile or asphalt shingles. Have a fire-resistant roof and exterior.

• Charge your smoke detectors at home on a regular basis.

• Install burglar bars on your windows and doors and make sure they have a fast security release or can be unlocked or detached during a time of emergency.

• Fire and homeowner’s insurance is just something you shouldn’t miss out on Also check to see if your policies are updated to reflect any changes to your home’s replacement costs. Review these polices whenever required.

• Ask the local fire department to check your house. They can inspect and make sure that there is no fire hazard.

• Don’t overload your electrical system. If a fuse blows or circuit breaker trips frequently, have a qualified electrician determine fault.

• If you have a fireplace, a stove or a grill? Always keep an eye on them when they’re fired up.

• Take extra care while dealing with space heaters Keep them at least 3 feet from anything flammable and turn them off when there is no one at home

• You should have smoke alarms at home. They detect fire in the earliest stages giving you extra time to escape.

• Fit alarms on every level of your home – remember to test the batteries every week and never remove the batteries.

• Take extra care while cooking with hot oil

• Don’t leave children alone in the kitchen when cooking

• Keep candles in secure holders and never leave them unattended

• You should never smoke inside your house and especially in your bed. You might fall asleep. Dispose off cigarettes properly.

• Make sure that your electrical installations are done by a professional.

• You should have at least one portable fire extinguisher in your house that is within easy access. Fire extinguishers should be strategically placed and should be handy.

Make sure everyone in the house knows how to escape when a fire broke out and keep all exits clear. Always keep keys for doors and windows where everyone can find them.

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