Safe-Home.com

Question about the Wide Profile Black Edge Cushion by Cardinal Gates and the Boing Wide Profile Edge Padding.

Answer: For indoor use, either brand of edge cushion padding will work. The Cardinal Gates padding sticks are the same as used for hearth guard. They come 9 to a box, each pad measuring 48 inches long and 2 3/8 inch x 2 3/8 inch on the lip.The Boing padding is 39.5" long x 2.25" x 2.25" x 1/2" thick.

For outdoor usage, we recommend using the Boing padding. It is made from what is called "skin urethane." That material is a special one-piece foam material which has both a shock absorbing "inner" foam and a  thick outer “skin” to protect from abrasion, UV rays, moisture and bacteria. It is designed for heavy duty use any where that there are sharp or dangerous edges, corners or surfaces. These uses include all types of recreational play areas, manufacturing and commercial, lLogistics and transportation facilities and equipment, military facilities, vehicles and equipment,medical and educational facilities, residential areas, etc.

Skin urethane Characteristics:

• Safety. It has passed or surpassed a variety of safety requirements including Compression, Toxicity etc. Safety testing documentation available upon request. It has anti-bacterial properties and passes ASTM G21 testing for a variety of bacteria. Our Boing skin urethane products contains no PVC, lead or phthalates.
• Not Fireproof. Does not currently contain fire and smoke retardants to meet Class A fire codes.
• Durability: Durable relative to the amount and type of use. It will last many, many years if used in the manner it was designed. Longevity will be reduced by excessive or aggressive use.
• Size tolerance: Can be up to a 5% variation in the size and density of the finished product. Skin urethane is produced in a mold - one piece at a time. The "baking" forcess that lasts 30-40 minutes can be affected by temperature and humidity which will vary by season and weather variations.
• UV resistance:  Indoor or outdoor use.  All plastic products, even those that are UV treated, will eventually fade in the sun. The stronger the sun, the faster it fades. The darker the initial color, the stronger it fades. In addition the impact absorbing characteristics are reduced in very cold (below 32F) and very hot (over 100 F) weather. These factors will vary from region to region.
• Impact absorption: impact absorbing characteristics are reduced in very cold (below 32F) and very hot (over 100 F) weather
• Best UV resistance:4 primary colors (Red, Blue, Green, Yellow. Best not to expose to direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Standard Adhesive Installing: For most installations, use “GE-Silicone I or II". The "II" version is supposed to be the improved version.
• High Adhesion Installation: For those locations with a need for very high adhesions, use 3M VHB (Very High Bond tape)
• Aluminum reinforced strips can be attached with screws (strips are pre-drilled & we provide the screws)
• How much silicone do you need? The amount will vary with the type of surface to be protected and the degree of adhesion. As a rough estimate, you can generally attach the following numbers with a single 300ml tube:
  Wall Pad - 2 to 3; or
  Corner Strip - 6 to 8; or,
  Jumbo Corner Guard - 12 to 14; or,
  Post Pad - 1 to 2 sets
• Silicone removal: scraping with a blade or craft knife ior use DAP's Silicone-Be-Gone. Oil-based solvents do require proper ventilation and gloves.Silicone can be removed by scraping with a blade or craft knife, but that can be laborious and isn't always practical.  Instead, try using a solvent that's made to remove silicone.There are a number of solvents on the market, but one of the best is Silicone-Be-Gone, a product made by DAP and developed specifically for removing silicone.  It can be used both for dissolving cured silicone and for cleaning up the area around freshly applied silicone.  The product takes several hours to work completely. It's also an oil-based solvent that has a noticeable odor, so use with proper ventilation.  It's also a good idea to wear gloves to minimize contact with your skin.  Krud Kutter, mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol also work and are safer but take more time and scraping.

Other questions about Boing Safety Pad Products:

• Can you paint Skin Urethane products? We do not offer "painting" products or services.There are some "water-based" urethane paints to which you add color pigment. You can try, for example SC115 aliphatic polyurethane coating. May require SC-80 water based primer. There is also a solvent based SC89 flexible urethane coating but it requires excellent ventilation and proper protective mask. Due to the complexity of the product,variable sizes etc, we do not get involved in the sale of such products.See www.burmanfoam.com
• How do you clean and maintain the safety padding?Under normal circumstances, little maintenance is required. Cleaning should be undertaken with normal household cleaning materials that are "non-abrasive". Limit your use of "solvent based" cleaners to the toughest cleaning jobs - follow manufacturers instructions. Unfortunately certain kinds of permanent markers like ballpoint pens and felt pens cannot be completely removed as the ink seeps into the surface layer.
• Can Skin Urethane padding be used on the floor or under playground equipment?The current shapes we offer are not designed for flooring use. The Wall Guards can be placed on the floor - but are not rated for ASTM 1292 - Safety Surfacing for Flooring.

I hope this helps with your decision. Thanks for your question

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Quantum Eye II passive carbon monoxide disposal spot monitor.

Answer: The less expensive spot monitors show only safe (yellow) and dangerous (dark) carbon monoxide conditions. As a former private pilot, I had one of the single yellow spot monitors stuck to the instrument panel. I did not know there was any other kind. When the spot turned dark, you'd best have an airfield in sight. Carbon monoxide effects one's ability to think straight. I heard a story from an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) in Minnesota about an experienced pilot whose muffler was leaking CO into the cockpit and needed help from the FBO to find the field and land the plane. He was lucky he didn't pass out first!

The Quantum Eye II has three colors, yellow for safe, green for caution or ventilate and dark blue for evacuate. Once out of the carbon monoxide, the sensor will regenerate. Sensor life is about 18 months. Obviously, this is not for the color blind pilot.

We also sell these to forklift drivers in warehouses, truck drivers and home owners who want an extra safety device say on their refrigerator.

A better choice are the 9Volt RV or Marine units. Unfortunately, at this time, Costar/Quantum is manufacturing only 12V units. The standard home 9Volt battery units are not made for high temperatures or high humidity. There are 12V RV units available. However, for aviation use, you need to get an FAA approval to mount permanently any non-aviation approved device in an airplane.

Thanks for your question. Fly safely.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Floodstop 3/8 Inch Automatic Water Shut-Off and Alarm.

Answer: My suggestion is to have the appliance store deliver the new dishwasher and have their plumber install the Floodstop at the same time. Check your local tax laws. Currently, at least in Iowa and in Pennsylvania, you don't pay sales tax on the appliance if the store delivers the unit and does the installation. Depending upon your locale, the additional plumbing charge may be $50 and up. The protection is worth it.

Most dishwashers are next to a sink since they use the sink drain. The plumber would install one or more water sensors on the floor where the dishwasher will be placed (we recommend a minimum of two), the water valve, attach the alarm valve turn off unit to the wall (probably under your sink), and plug in the unit. The sensors should be tested by wetting them. After they are dried and the water valve is reset, then the dishwasher is installed.

The FloodStop unit for dishwashers and toilets has a 3/8 inch compression valve that connects to the angle stop and the supply line. You do need electricity unless you plan to change batteries at least once per year. (The unit draws power only to open or close the valve.) For AC, use the 4 C batteries, not included, as back-up. Contacts allow the option of connecting to phone dialers, alarm systems, X10 home automation devices, etc. There is also a 9 foot controller valve extension cord available to allow mounting of the controller in a more or less visible location. The length of cord included with Flood Stop leak detection alarms is 2.5 feet.Transformer extension wires are also available.

We also sell Floodstops for water heaters, washing machines that does not require a plumber, sinks, icemakers with 1/4 inch lines etc. All units have a one year warranty by the manufacturer. We've had customers literally saved from flooded homes from these units especially from leaking washers and water heaters.

Floodstop Dishwasher, Toilet and Ice Maker Unit Information:

* The FloodStop valve is connected to the angle stop and supply line

* Water/leak sensor is placed at the base of the appliance or fixture (Dishwasher; Sink; 3/8" Icemaker; Toilet; etc.)

* Valve stays open until water loss is detected

* Water on sensor closes FloodStop valve and sounds alarm * Valve stays closed until problem is attended to and system is reset

FloodStop 3/8 Inch Water Valve and Water Alarm Components:

1. Motorized Full-Port Ball Valve (3/8" Compression).

2. Control Unit with Battery Backup (4 C batteries, not included).

3. AC Power Adaptor (or use 4 X C Batteries as Primary Power Source).

4. Water Leak Sensor.

5. Output Contact Wires (2).

Thank you for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Kidde Fire Sentry Smoke Alarm i9040E

Answer: The sensors are different for smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and combustible gas alarms (for propane, lp or natural gas). Until recently, some towns did not require the other two alarms. In fact currently the propane and natural gas alarms remain optional and virtually unknown except when a home or building explodes due to build up of combustible gasses.

There are several kinds of smoke alarm sensors available: ionization and photoelectric. It is best to have both kinds of alarms in your home.

Here are some examples of the choices we offer in Kidde Smoke Alarms and BRK alarms:

• The Kidde Fire Sentry Smoke Alarm i9040E is an ionization sensor alarm that operates via one 9volt battery. There are 120VAC units such as the FireX/Kidde I5000 FADC which has a 10 year warranty and hard-wired to 120VAC. It has a 9V battery backup in case of power failure. It has a front loading battery door and can be used as a single station or multiple station unit, i.e. connects with other units in your home or business. This unit is great if you have a new home and can wire the appropriate connectors.
• Otherwise a better choice is the Kidde Wireless RF Hardwired Interconnected Smoke Alarm with Battery Back -Up. The new wireless technology uses a radio frequency to both transmit and receive messages about a hazard in the home; when one alarm sounds, all will sound. This also has a ten year warranty. 
• The Kidde Silhouette is a low profile AC/DC powered, ionization smoke alarm that operates on a 120V power source with a sealed rechargeable battery backup.
• Photoelectric Smoke Alarm AC / DC Battery Backup - BRK 7010B UL 217 standard.Dust cover * Single button test / silence feature * 9V battery backup * Alarm indication * Photoelectric sensing chamber * Perfect mount keeps alarm secure over a wide rotation range * 10 year limited warranty * Optipath 360 technology.

Most homes need at least 4 smoke alarms.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Res-Q-Me Escape Tool.

Answer: Both the Life Hammer and the Res-Q-Me can be personalized to be sold to support a school, fire department, etc. or as a give-away to employees, customers, etc. The cost is related to number of color of inks used, how quickly they are needed and whether the color you choose is in stock. The minimum for personalizing or imprinting is 100 units. At this time, April 2010, the set-up fee is $75 to $125 and the rush fee is $100 for 48 hour service just for the imprinting. What we need is a high resolution logo and/or high resolution printing. Figure on a minimum of $1.25 extra per unit at this time (April 2010) with ground shipping for one color in minimums of 100 units. Typical lead time for imprinting is 21 days to 14 days plus shipping time (4 t0 5 business days.)

For larger quantities, we do have quantity pricing available. On the Res-Q-Me, both the clip and the unit itself can have lettering or logo's imprinted. Due to the small size of the unit, larger more complicated logos might not work well. Both products have seat belt cutters and glass break devices for escape from cars, trucks, etc.

The Life Hammer has more room for imprinting due to its larger size. Currently, the colors available in the Res-Q-Me are bright orange, pink with part of each sale going to fight breast cancer, red, blue, black and yellow. The Life Hammer is now available in original bright orange, pink (part of each sale going to breast cancer research) and black.

Thank you very much for your question and your order!

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Scentry III GFRAB Propane/Natural Gas Home Gas Detector.

Answer: The Scentry III GFRAB propane/natural gas detector is only one component of this home safety system. To have a complete system, you need these additional components:

• The Scentry III Gas Valve Controller
• The Battery Back Up in case there is a power failure.
• A compatible gas valve such as this .75 inch that is CSA (AGA/CGA) Certificate number 229521-1656058 Australian Gas Association Certificate number 4235,UL Recognized File Number MH5939.
• Optional: Remote Gas Sensors. Up to 5 remote explosive gas sensors can be monitored by the Scentry III GFRAB unit.

The compatible valves are in .5, .75 and 1 inch sizes. Each valve is an electrically operated gas shut off valve that opens and closes on a demand signal from a thermostat or other controlling device. Can be used with both natural gas and LP gas at pressures up to 0.5 psi. The White Rodgers replacement is a compression spring closing and soft seat construction gas valve.

The advantage of this system is that the controller unit supports up to 5 calibrated remote sensors.

Scentry III-GFRAB Specifications:

• Case: ABS Plastic
• Physical Size: 7.6 inches by 4.6 inches
• Weight: 2.25 lbs
• Color: Gray
• Power consumption: 1.5va
• Supports up to 5 calibrated remote sensors (not included)
• Requires Scentry III-GVD gas valve (purchase separately)
• Supports Battery Back-Up (Not Included)
• Supports Gas Valve Controller for Explosive Gas (Not Included)
• Connections: screw terminals
• Input Power: 115VAC, 60 Hz
• Output Control Relays: 2 amps,
• 24 VAC Alarm Signal
• Output: 12V DC @500 ma
• Reset: manual
• Sensor Type: Tin Dioxide Semiconductor
• Alarm Points: Propane (LP) <5200 PPM Alarm Points: Natural Gas / Methane <12,200 PPM
• Manufactured Proudly in the USA for Safety First USA, Inc.
• Warranty: 1 year from date of purchase.

Thanks for your question. Just remember propane gas and natural gas are safe sources of energy if you add protective measures including alarms, shut off valves and regular maintenance of the appliances that use gas.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Washing Machine FloodStop FS3/4H-90 compared to the Watts IntelliFlow Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valves with Leak Sensor.

Answer: All that I know about the Intelliflow water leak alarm is from Internet reviews and from the manufacturer's website.

I recommend you choose the Floodstop unit unless you are looking for a main water valve shut off such as the WaterCop that also uses individual water sensors. My recommendation is based on personal experience, customer feedback, repeat large orders from condo associations and plumbers and internet reviews. The IntelliFlow negative reviews are numerous on customer postings while the FloodStop Washing Machine units are all positive comments.

Safe Home Products has sold the Floodstop units since 2003 with only two customer problems. One customer had difficulty getting the automatic water valve on his hot water heater Floodstop to re-open after it closed when his water heater began leaking on the floor. The second person had a unit that was defective from the start, the actuator did not work properly. We have literally sold thousands of the different models with only praise.

FloodStop comments were all positive and include:

• Easily installed: less than 30 minutes.
• Off button: able to manually shut off water without reaching behind the washer.
• Works great.
• Does what it is supposed to do: protects from leaks.

IntelliFlow negative comments are related primarily to water flow:

• electronics fails completely sometimes in less than one year.
• electronics cause the unit to open and close the valves repeatedly causing knocking sounds.
• electronics cause the unit to cycle on and off with high efficiency machines
• electronics cause the unit to shut off the water before the extended high efficiency cycle (can often be over an hour on my Kenmore) is complete.

Basic descriptions of both the Watts IntelliFlow and the Floodstop follow.

Intelliflow Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valve Series A2C-M

The Watts IntelliFlow Automatic No. 2 (A2C-M) has a state of the art electric current sensing device. Water valves open when the washer is turned on and the current flow to the washer is sensed. After the full wash cycle is completed, the device senses the lack of current and closes the water valves. The logic is that an automatic operation protects against water damage if a washing machine inlet hose breaks when no one is around. Constant water pressure can cause traditional washing machine hoses to burst.

Also the leak sensor senses leaks during the wash cycle and shuts off the water valves to prevent flooding.

# IntelliFlow A2C-M Specifications: UL listed
# Maximum Pressure: 150psi (10 bars)
# Maximum Temperature: 180°F (82°C)
# 115VAC, 15A, 60Hz
# Cord: 15ft
# Current draw (with appliance off): 20mA
# Maximum appliance current rating: 15A
# Circuit breaker requirement: 15 amp. GFI *

FloodStop Washing Machine Unit:

Automatically shuts off water to the washing machine when water leaks from a hose or the machine and sounds an alarm. All other household plumbing fixtures and appliances are unaffected. Installation is simple.

To install, connect the two Floodstop Valves to the hot and cold water supply lines. Mount control unit to wall. Place sensor(s) on floor. Units are operated by either by 120 vAC adapter (included), Batteries OR BOTH!

NOTE: DO NOT PLACE SENSOR DIRECTLY ON METAL PAN OR DAMP FLOOR. If no water is present and sensor sounds alarm, place paper towel or cloth under sensor to "insulate" against dampness of floor or metal of pan. Once the paper or cloth gets wet, the sensor will activate the shut-off and sound the alarm. Sensor will sound if placed on metal.

Kit Contents: everything you need to protect your property:

    * Two 3/4" motorized ball valves with hose fittings to install on both hot and cold water inlets.
    * Water sensor to place on the floor. If there is a washing machine drain pan, purchase another sensor to place inside pan.
    * Control Unit to be mounted with screws or Velcro (included).
    * AC Adapter and/or batteries for power source.

Similarities: Both shut off water.

Differences:  How and by what means the valves are shut.

• IntelliFlow: Washer water valves are opened and closed at the beginning and end of what the Intelliflow believes is the washer's cycle, as evidenced by a sensor for electric current. In other words, the Intelliflow shuts off hot and cold water valves when the washer stops using electricity and/or when the moisture sensor senses a leak when the unit it operating.
• The Floodstop shuts off hot and cold water valces when a leak is sensed during machine operation, when a hose breaks, when the pan beneath the machine has water leaking into it from a washing machine leak, etc.when the washing machine is operating or when it is there with water sitting in the hoses.

I hope this has been helpful. Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Barbara discusses the FloodChek washing machine hoses and the FloodStop automatic water shut off valve system for washing machines. The FloodStop system with water alarm and water sensors alerts of washing machine leaks. Easily installed, the rupture proof washer inlet hoses plus the FloodStop prevent or stop water leaks from causing water damage. 24/7 protection from leaking washing machines or leaking hoses.

Question about the product Product Code P3-P7816 P3 International Attack Wave Pest Repeller&

Q: "I was inquiring about using the P3 International Attack Wave Pest Repeller for a problem we have. We have recently purchased a log/cedar shake-home that has been vacant for at least 2+yrs, inspection done-some how... missed a "bunch-O-bats" Inside and out!!Never even knew they were there. I have to do something now!!.(2- KIDS) Do you, or can you recommend a product that will drive bats out of an immeadiate area? How many watts... hertzz... does it take to drive these things elsewhere?? Bat houses take up to a year or more to attract a colony? I could use any ideas!! Please HELP!!! Thanks again. LS

Answer: You certainly do have a challenge. Bat houses are the best answer and great for mosquito population reduction, too. The Attack Wave works quite well for indoor rodents. However, I would not recommend using these units for bats. I have several recommendations.

First is the Transonic Pro ultrasonic and sonic rodent and animal pest repeller.We've sold hundreds and hundreds of these for bats, cats, rats, etc. A log type reception center in Cedar Rapids mounted them on the walls inside the reception area to clear out the bats. Customer have placed them in attics, outside under covered areas up high to chase off bats, etc. Results have been excellent. You will need at least 2 units inside your attic, more if your attic has an irregular shape. These use AC power. Outside you'll need at least one on each outside wall, probably up high where the bats congregate.

A second is the Evictor Strobe Light This is a permanent installation of a 175,000 candlepower strobe light unit that has a low wattage bulb. Although made for squirrels and roof rats, this unit also gets rid of bats. It is a high intensity strobe light mounted in the attic. There are tests being run currently by a testing lab on bats so this can be put on the labeling. Depending upon the attic size and shape, you may need two of these installed 2 to 3 feet above the floor. If you use these in conjunction with the Transonic Pro units, your results should be even faster.

A third is the Quadblaster. This is an industrial strength ultrasonic repeller for larger areas. One customer who installed on in his warehouse said that not only did bats and birds vanish but also the rats and mice disappeared.

Knowing the size and configuration of your home would help. Please feel free to phone us or send us additional information including digital photos by email.

Hope some of these ideas help. Thanks for your questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about Kids Edge Hearth Safety Pad installation when there is no metal frame.

Answer: First decide which color you want. Padding comes in gray, brown, black, taupe and ivory. Next measure the length of the hearth. Then measure the width of the side or sides. If the total equals 150 inches or less, the standard hearth pad kit will work. Each kit contains 90 inches of straight padding and two corners that are 10 inches by 20 inches. So you can cover the front of a hearth that is up to 130 inches long with 10 inches of returns to the fireplace or 110 inches of width with a return of 20 inches in depth.

These are the steps to take:

1. Make sure the hearth edge is clean and dry.
2. Lay out the pad on the hearth to determine how it will fit.
3. Attach the corners, Remove the adhesive backing from the lower part of the pad. Fit it onto the hearth. Next remove the adhesive backing from the upper portion and press it onto the hearth.
4. Next attach the straight pieces to the hearth. Press ends together as you attach each piece to help conceal joints.
5. Most likely, you will need to cut the last piece installed.
6. Measure the space to be covered accurately
7. Add approximately 3/8 inch and mark the pad.
8. Place pad on shipping box edge.
9. Use a sharp long bladed knife such as a fillet knife in this next step
10. Lubricate the entire length of the knife with liquid soap or soapy water
11. Using light pressure, move the knife back and forth on the top of the pad, keeping the blade straight.
12. Repeat on bottom half after turing over the pad
13. Attach the last piece of pad by removing the backing as noted in step 3.

If you need additional lengths of padding, you can purchase by the foot or by the 54 inch stick. Remember extra padding can be used to pad tops of stairways into basements, etc.

Thanks for your question. We recommend that you do a safety walk around of your entire home as well to find other places that need safety proofing. Among the most dangerous items are aquariums, tv sets, bookcases, windows open more than 4 inches and sharp corners and edges on furniture.

Sincerely, Barbara