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The Best Security Cameras for Homes

Daisy Jensen
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13
The Best Security Cameras for Homes

Are you in the market for a security camera for your home? If so, you’re likely wondering which type of camera is best for your needs. Many different options are available, from basic models to more sophisticated options with features like facial recognition, animal detection, and color night vision.

Other things to consider are smart features and video footage storage. Some cameras offer local storage, while others only have monthly subscriptions for cloud video storage. 

So, which one should you choose? Whether you’re looking for outdoor security cameras or indoor wireless security cameras, here is a look at some of the best security cameras for home use.

1. Google Nest Cam Outdoor

Google Nest Cam Outdoor

The Google Nest Cam Outdoor is one of the best outdoor cameras for watching what’s happening outside your home. It’s waterproof and provides clear 1080-p images in both daylight and nighttime conditions. You can select between a motion-only or 24/7 continuous recording.

However, you need a Nest Aware subscription plan to view your footage. Your smartphone will also receive motion alerts when the Nest Cam detects motion.

It has a built-in spotlight that enhances night vision and two-way talk. It’s part of the Google Home ecosystem and works with Google Assistant. 

2. Reolink Argus 3 Pro

Reolink Argus 3 Pro

If you’re looking for a security camera that can store footage on a local SD card, then Reolink Argus 3 Pro is your best choice. It also has cloud storage on top of the local storage option. It’s affordable, and you can be powered with solar energy using a separately sold solar panel.

It has excellent video quality but has a narrower field of vision compared to most brands. You don’t need a separate paid subscription to use the camera and can set it up for continuous recording. It is also compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. 

3. Wyze Cam

Wyze Cam

For those looking for affordable home security cameras, look no further than Wyze Cam. It’s a great budget security camera that’s WiFi-ready with live streaming, night vision, motion detection, and HD video quality.

It has free 14 days of cloud storage and a built-in microSD card slot for local storage. It also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. 

4. Eufy Solo Indoor Cam

Eufy Solo Indoor Cam

Get 2k images with Eufy Solo Indoor Cam. Its high video resolution has motion, animal, and person detection. It also detects crying and boasts of 4 storage types:

  • Local via microSD
  • Cloud via paid subscription
  • NAS (network-attached storage)
  • Apple HomeKit Secure Video

5. Arlo Pro 4

Arlo Pro 4

The Arlo Pro 4 boasts compatibility with various smart home platforms. It works with Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. As a smart device, it’s 100% wireless, runs on rechargeable batteries, and connects seamlessly with WiFi.

It captures 2k videos and has infrared night vision and built-in spotlights. You can easily install this security camera using its magnetic mount. There’s no local storage, but you will have to pay for Arlo Secure’s cloud storage subscription. 

6. Arlo Video Doorbell

Arlo Video Doorbell

The Arlo Video Doorbell is a two-in-one product better known as a smart doorbell. More than just a doorbell, it captures the outside scene and is built to withstand the elements. It has two-way voice audio, arm/disarm modes, integrated siren, and motion zones.

You can pay for Arlo Secure, which gives cloud storage and advanced features like vehicle detection, package detection, facial recognition, and pet detection. 

7. Ring Stick-Up Cam Battery

Ring Stick-Up Cam Battery

If you’re looking for wireless cameras that you can place either indoors or outdoors, then Ring Stick-Up Cam Battery is the top choice. It has rechargeable batteries, which you can recharge using solar power once you opt to purchase the solar accessory.

It may only be compatible with Amazon Alexa, but it has a built-in siren and bright spotlights to deter unwelcome visitors. 

It can get confusing determining the best security camera to keep your home safe. It’s key to determine the essential features and purchase one based on your budget.

All of the cameras on our list boast stellar performance and are guaranteed to keep your home safe in the long run. For more lists of the best security products in the market, check out our blogs at Be-Safe.

7 Reasons to Get a Home Security System

Daisy Jensen
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10
7 Reasons to Get a Home Security System

Do I really need a security system at home? What are the benefits to having it? If you have these questions, you are in the right place. There are many things to consider when it comes to a monitored alarm system, including how a security system can benefit you and your family.  

Here are a few reasons to get a home security system:

Provide peace of mind

Feeling of comfort and safety is probably the most important reason why people get security systems. It gives you a sense of relief when you know that your home and family are monitored and protected 24/7. In today’s world, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Especially when close people live in the house or when you have valuable things at home, it is crucial to have an additional layer of protection. A monitored security system will notify the authorities in case of any unusual activity in your home.

Protection against burglaries

Burglary is one of the most common crimes in Ireland.  According to Garda, in 2022  there were 4,032 recorded cases of burglary in Ireland. In 2019, this number was 3,944.  These numbers show that the burglary rate in Ireland is increasing. And you, as a homeowner, need to be aware of this and take the necessary precautions.

A monitored home security system is a great way to deter burglars and protect your home. Most criminals will avoid homes that have visible security cameras or alarm signs. 

Security systems are a great way to protect your home against burglaries. monitored alarm system will notify you and the security company if there is any suspicious activity in or around your home. In some cases, the security company can even contact the Garda on your behalf.

Allows remote access to your home

Most monitored security systems come with an app that you can use to control your system from anywhere in the world. With the app, you can arm and disarm your system, check the status of your doors and windows, and even see live footage from your cameras. 

If you have a monitored alarm system, you don’t have to worry about whether you remembered to arm your system before you left for vacation. You can simply do it from your phone.

Protects against fire

In addition to burglaries, monitored security systems can also protect your home against fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.  Most systems come with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors that will notify the security company if there is a fire or carbon monoxide leak in your home. 

The security company will then contact the fire department on your behalf and dispatch them to your home. This can help to reduce the amount of damage caused by a fire.

Lower Homeowners Insurance

Almost every insurance company offers a discount to homeowners who have a security system.  This is because monitored security systems reduce the risk of burglaries, fires, and other damages to your home. 

While many first time homeowners do not pay much attention to their home insurance rates, it is something that can save you a lot of money in the long run.  By getting a monitored security system, you could save up to 20% on your home insurance. 

Helps to watch your pets

If you have pets, a monitored security system can be a great way to check on them while you are away. Most systems come with cameras that you can use to check on your pets and make sure they are in not too much trouble.

You can also set up alerts that will notify you if your pet leaves the house or if there is any unusual activity in your home.  This can help you to keep your pet safe and reduce the chances of them getting lost or stolen.

Useful for Medical Assistance

If you or a family member has a medical condition that requires assistance, a monitored security system can be a great way to get help. Most systems come with an emergency button that you can press to contact the security company. 

The security company will then contact the Garda or ambulance on your behalf and dispatch them to your home. This can be a lifesaver in case of a medical emergency.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many benefits to having a monitored security system in your home. If you are considering getting a security system, be sure to do your research and find a system that meets your specific needs.

Baby Proof House Checklist for New Parents

Daisy Jensen
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13
Baby Proof House Checklist for New Parents

New parents have a lot to think about– from feeding schedules to sleep training, there’s a lot to keep track of. While you’re focused on all of the big things, it’s easy to forget about the smaller details that can make a big difference in keeping your home safe for your little one.

This baby-proofing checklist will help make your house baby-proofed and prone to harm. 

Living Room

  • Look out for furniture with sharp edges and try to replace them with rounded or curved ones i.e. rounded coffee tables.
  • If replacing is not possible, use stick-on corner cards to keep sharp edges safe. You can also use this in any sharp corners around the room.
  • Secure furniture especially heavy furniture using furniture straps that attach them to walls.
  • Check any electrical hazards and cover electrical outlets with childproof covering. Go for tight-fitting outlet covers that baby hands can’t pry. 
  • If you use window blinds, try using cordless window coverings instead, or keep the cords safe using cord holders. 
  • Keep fireplace tools out of sight and reach. 

Kitchen

  • Lock cabinet doors with childproof latches so kids will not be able to open them accidentally.
  • Use stove-knob covers to discourage your baby from turning on store burners.
  • Put lid locks on pantry items so they can’t be easily opened and spilled.
  • Keep any dangerous items like knives safe in cabinets with magnetic locks.
  • Make sure smoke alarms and smoke detectors are working properly. 

Bathroom And Laundry Room

  • As a safety precaution, set the water heater to less than 120 degrees to prevent accidental scalding. 
  • Lock bathrooms and toilet lids using toilet locks. 
  • Keep cleaning products hidden in locked cabinets that are out of reach. Your curious child could easily mistake them for toys and ingest them. 

Nursery

  • Don’t hang anything directly over the crib or changing table. They can cause strangulation issues when infants grab them. 
  • Beware of the appropriate crib height for your child and the right crib slat sizes.
  • Don’t place anything in or near a crib or crib mattress. Even pillows and toys can be safety hazards.
  • Use a small object tester like an old toilet paper tube to test what small objects are safe around your child. Keep toys with detachable parts (like doll eyes) away unlike they are older.

As kids develop rapidly, they would start moving around the house faster than you can watch them. Keep them safe by installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, using childproof screens or window guards in windows, and keeping doors to unsafe rooms locked.

Try to avoid breakable decorations, fish tanks, and heavy equipment where kids can access and play with them. 

Having a baby is an exciting time, but it also brings a lot of new challenges. Most accidents involving children are easily preventable with common sense and having a baby-safe home. 

For more articles about keeping your home safe for your kids, check out the Be Safe blog. 

Buying A Child’s GPS Tracker For Your Peace Of Mind

Daisy Jensen
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8
Buying A Child’s GPS Tracker For Your Peace Of Mind

As a parent, it’s natural to want to keep your child safe. Most parents often worry about their child’s safety, especially when they’re not around. You can’t be with them every minute of the day, after all. What if there was a way to keep track of their whereabouts?

That’s where a child GPS tracker comes in. By attaching a small tracking device to your child’s clothing or backpack, you can use your phone or computer to see their location at any time. You’ll always know where they are and can be alerted if they leave a safe designated area.

This can give you peace of mind when they’re at school or playing outside, which can ultimately be useful if they ever get lost. GPS trackers are becoming increasingly common with relatively affordable prices, so they’re definitely worth considering if you want to keep tabs on your little ones.

There are many different types of GPS trackers on the market, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. Some trackers are designed for tracking children, while others can be used for pets or valuable items. You’ll also want to consider battery life and monthly subscriptions when making your selection.

Factors To Consider When Selecting GPS Tracking Devices

Many GPS tracker options are available on the market, and it can be difficult to choose the right one for your family. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a GPS tracker for kids:

1. Features

Think about what features you want. Do you need real-time tracking, or will periodic updates suffice? Would you like to be able to set up safe zones and receive email alerts if your child leaves them? Other features to consider include two-way calling, geofencing, and activity tracking. 

Geofencing allows you to set up safe zones for your child, while two-way calling allows you to use the GPS tracker like a mobile phone. Two-way calling also allows your child to call any preset emergency contacts in the GPS device.

2. User-friendliness

You’ll want a tracker that’s easy to set up and use, even if you’re not tech-savvy. It should also have long battery life and be robust enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. Kids are often messy and destructive, and you want something that’s waterproof and extremely durable. 

Consider the weight of the tracker and whether or not you want it concealed or visible. Some trackers can be worn as watches or accessories, while others can simply be attached to a backpack. 

3. Budget

Trackers can range in price from under $100 to over $500. If you’re looking for high-end features like real-time tracking and activity zones, you’ll likely have to pay more. However, if you’re just looking for basic location tracking, you may be able to find a more affordable option.

Top 5 GPS Tracker for Kids

1. Jiobit Next

Jiobit Next is a small GPS device with 10-day battery life and the ability to learn your child’s routines. It will send an alert when a deviation is detected. However, there’s no speaker, so voice communication is not possible. It only works in the US and has no worldwide coverage.  

2. AngelSense Kid’s GPS Tracker

AngelSense is best for children with different needs or disabilities. It sends frequent updates throughout the day and allows you to communicate with your child. You can also check the location history to know where your child has been. However, if you’re on a budget, it’s important to know that it has an expensive subscription plan on the get-go. 

3. GeoZilla GPS Tracker

GeoZilla offers worldwide coverage and has a 5-day battery life that you can prolong by adjusting the update frequency. The companion app includes location history, schedule alerts, place alerts, and to-do lists. However, the device is not waterproof, but it does come with affordable monthly fees. 

4. Lynq Smart Compass

Lynq comes with high-precision geo-fencing that tracks the accurate location of your child. There are no subscription plans, but it comes with a high upfront cost. It has a limited tracking range of three miles and is best used in crowded places like amusement parks.

5. TickTalk 4

TickTalk 4 is a GPS watch that kids would want to wear. It comes with iHeartRadio streaming that allows kids to stream family-friendly music.

It comes with a fitness tracker, and the companion parent app gets an automatic alert when the child wanders off preset boundaries. Two-way voice communication is also available, but it doesn’t work with any cellular networks. 

Your child’s safety is your utmost priority. GPS trackers give you peace of mind that even if they’re away at school or out with friends, they’re safe and sound. There’s an upfront investment cost and monthly service fee, but in the end, no one can put a price on your child’s safety. 

Learn more about keeping your kids safe with Be-Safe’s blogs.

Is Pepto Bismol Safe for Dogs?

Daisy Jensen
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24
Is Pepto Bismol Safe for Dogs?

Dogs, like humans, experience tummy troubles like diarrhea, upset stomach, and vomiting. And as a concerned dog parent, you may be wondering if Pepto Bismol, an over-the-counter medication drug helpful for humans, may work for dogs too.

The short answer is YES and NO. Pepto Bismol can help cure dogs of their digestive problems, but it’s safer to consult a vet before administering any pink tablet dosage. 

What is Pepto Bismol?

Pepto Bismol is the leading brand of Bismuth subsalicylate that you can buy without a prescription. It’s available as a tablet or liquid syrup, and people with tummy troubles are very familiar with it.

It’s known to have antidiarrheal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects on humans, making them effective at treating acute GI ailments. Since it’s so effective for people, it must surely be effective for dogs, right? Before giving your dog a dose of Pepto Bismol, you need to understand its effects first.

Dogs, unlike humans, have sensitive tummies and what you think is a general stomach upset may be a sign of a deeper problem. While Pepto Bismol may give temporary relief, it can aggravate a deeper concern and lead to a more threatening condition for your pet. 

The Common Side Effects of Pepto Bismol on Dogs 

When it comes to canines, Pepto Bismol has the following negative side effects:

1. Turn a Dog Stool Black.

Pepto Bismol contains bismuth, an active ingredient that reacts with sulfur inside the stomach and makes stool black. It’s a harmless pigment, and the black stool may not be a cause of immediate concern. However, the black stool masks a graver condition called melena. 

Melana is digested blood that appears in stool, making it black. There could be internal bleeding in the GI tract, causing blood to appear in the dog’s stool. If you went to a vet and they didn’t know that you gave your dog Pepto Bismol, they may think there’s internal bleeding. 

On the other hand, what you thought was a harmless black stool caused by Pepto Bismol, is an indicator of a severe medical condition. 

2. Cause Gastric Ulcers.

One of the active ingredients in Pepto Bismol is salicylic acid (or aspirin), which can give dogs gastrointestinal ulcers that cause bleeding. Since Pepto Bismol already turns stool black, this will further make the bleeding hard to detect. 

If your dog is already taking aspirin medication or dog-specific NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) for various pain like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other injuries, the risk of GI ulcers increases. Using Pepto Bismol together with steroids also presents a risk of stomach ulcers.

3. Interferes With Other Medications

If your dog is taking other medicines like anticoagulants and anti-biotics, Pepto Bismol can interfere with their effects. It can increase abnormal bleeding and reduce the effects of certain antibiotics. 

Dogs using ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and digoxins should also avoid Pepto Bismol. Dogs suffering from acid reflux and taking omeprazole should also steer clear of Pepto Bismol. 

4. Produce Inaccurate Laboratory Tests

Pepto Bismol tablets look like metal objects or foreign bodies inside a dog’s stomach. An x-ray may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis that will result in surgery.

Pepto Bismo can also cause incorrect urine glucose and ketone test results, making it challenging for your vet to accurately diagnose your dog’s condition and prescribe the correct treatment options. 

5. Harmful for Pregnant And Lactating Dogs

Pepto Bismol is detrimental to a dog fetus or a nursing puppy. Never administer these chewable tablets to a pregnant or nursing dog because the salicylic acid ingredient can cause significant illnesses. 

Is Pepto Bismol Safe for Dogs?

When your dog suffers digestive issues, bring them to a vet if the condition doesn’t resolve at once. Most canine digestive problems resolve on their own within a day or two. During the illness, feed your dog a bland diet until the diarrhea is resolved. 

If you want to administer Pepto Bismol for immediate relief, administer the correct dosage according to your dog’s weight. The American Kennel Club recommends 1 tsp for every 10 pounds administered every 6-8 hours.

If you’ve never given Pepto Bismol before, consult with a vet first, especially if you’re unsure of the proper dosage. However, if your dog experiences loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and very dark or bloody stools within the day, then go to a vet immediately.

If you’ve given them Pepto Bismol, let your vet know so he can recommend suitable treatment options. Caring for pets involves a lot of responsibility. Human medications don’t always work for dogs. Always consult a vet to know how to help your dog get through a stomach illness.

For more articles about pet safety, check out our resources at Be Safe. 

What You Should Know About Getting A Concrete Burn

Daisy Jensen
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13
What You Should Know About Getting A Concrete Burn

Deep burns occur not just from fire or heated substances but also concrete or cement. A concrete burn, also called a cement burn, happens when skin gets in contact with dry or wet cement.

It is one of the most common construction injuries, and anyone working on a construction project is at risk.

How Does Concrete Burn?

The primary ingredient in concrete is cement, which is mixed with sand, gravel, and rock fragments. The chemicals in wet cement react with the water molecules in your skin when they come into contact, producing alkaline molecules that break down skin tissue.

Harmless calcium oxide, a molecule in cement, turns to calcium hydroxide when cement gets in contact with water. This is an alkaline element that raises the pH level of the concrete.

pH is the measure of a substance’s acidity or alkalinity. It’s a scale from 1 to 14, with one being the most acidic and 14 being the most basic.

The human skin has an average pH of 4.7. Any substance with a pH level in the extreme ends can cause chemical burns and damage your skin. When the molecules in cement get in contact with sweat and water molecules in the skin, the resulting reaction produces molecules that dissolve the skin’s collagen fibers. These oxygen and hydrogen molecules also break down fat and dehydrate the skin.

The reaction isn’t instantaneous, unlike thermal burns. You still have time to perform first aid measures to avoid prolonged cement burns. However, this also means you won’t feel any symptoms right away and can leave the wet cement longer in your skin than necessary. The longer the exposure to cement is, the greater the degree of the burn.

Cement Burn Symptoms

Cement burns can be hard to diagnose because it takes a while for them to appear after the initial exposure. You only experience symptoms hours later. Some of the common symptoms are:

  • Pain
  • Blistering
  • Itchiness
  • Redness
  • Dry skin
  • Scabbing

These symptoms can be like other cases making it hard to diagnose further that the incident is already a cement burn. They also appear slowly and get worse progressively.

Cement Burn Treatments

Cement burn is easy to treat and prevent. Often, it doesn’t lead to severe medical treatments, but there are documented cases of severe cement burns, with some even leading to death. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. Here are basic first aid measures if you come in contact with wet or dry cement:

  1. Remove any jewelry, concrete-soaked clothes, or protective equipment.
  2. If there’s dry concrete, brush it off using clean towels.
  3. Wash the affected area thoroughly with clean water and neutral soaps.
  4. If you already feel the burn, flush the affected area with cool water for 15 minutes.
  5. Neutralize the burn with any acidic substance like diluted vinegar or citrus juice.
  6. Seek emergency medical attention if the sting doesn’t go away.

If you need to go to a hospital to seek medical treatment, tell the medical staff that you’re suffering from a concrete burn. They will rinse and dress the wound and prescribe antibiotics for any possible infection.

In severe burns, a healthcare professional will remove the dead skin cells and apply a skin graft– a procedure known as debridement.

Preventing Concrete Burns

Cement burns are easy to prevent. With the right tools and safety measures, you can avoid experiencing them. To prevent concrete burns:

  • Wear proper safety equipment when working with cement. These include safety glasses, protective clothing, and protective gear.
  • Wear high waterproof boots to prevent concrete from leaking inside. For extra precaution, wear your pants inside the boots and duct tape them to create a seal.
  • Wear well-fitting gloves, and don’t touch any wet cement directly.
  • Don’t wear jewelry or other accessories on a construction site. These can attract concrete, and it may be too late before you notice.
  • When removing work clothes, avoid getting concrete on your skin. Wash with pH-neutral soaps to remove any debris on your skin.

Painful burns like concrete burns are preventable with the proper knowledge and safety precautions. You can continue your construction project without any accident by ensuring the workplace is safe, and first aid treatment is available in case of unfortunate incidents.

Learn how to keep your home safe with Be-Safe’s blog.

Are Essential Oils Safe For Cats?

Daisy Jensen
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7
Are Essential Oils Safe For Cats?

The craze for essential oils might have you wondering if your feline fur baby can benefit from these oils as much as you do. The short answer is no. Most essential oils, especially concentrated forms, are toxic to cats and make this beautiful animal sick. 

In particular, tea tree oil, a popular oil used in essential oil diffusers, has a severe toxic risk for cats. They contain a toxin normally metabolized by the liver, but cats don’t possess the enzyme to metabolize it. Other types of oils harmful to cats are:

  • Lavender Oil
  • Rosemary Oil
  • Cinnamon Oil
  • Ylang Ylang Oil
  • Peppermint Oil
  • Clove Oil
  • Thyme Oil
  • Lemon Oil
  • Eucalyptus Oil
  • Coconut Oil

Why Are Natural Oils Harmful To Cats?

Essential oils are rapidly absorbed orally and through the skin. Most contain toxins but pose no real threat to humans because the liver metabolizes these poisons. However, cats lack the liver enzyme to eliminate them.

Cats are susceptible to phenols, and phenolic compounds primarily concentrated on essential oils. Phenols can cause liver damage and failure, respiratory irritation, low body temperature, low heart rate, vomiting, ataxia, tremors, and drooling.

Pet parents should watch out for these signs of poisoning in cats and be extra careful in handling essential oil products if they don’t want their feline friends to suffer from essential oil poisoning. You may like the smell of these oils as well as their potential benefits. Is a compromise possible? 

How To Safely Use Essential Oils With Cats

While oils are toxic to cats, there are ways to still enjoy their aromatic compounds without putting your pets at risk. Animals have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, and you should consider this when planning where to use air fresheners, reed diffusers, and other oil diffusers.

Something that’s light for us may be overpowering for them. As a responsible pet owner, if you plan to use these oil products, you should consider the following:

  1. Keep essential oils away from cats, or do not leave them in areas where they may come in direct contact with them. Although some oils are insect repellents and smell fantastic, they can cause severe or fatal reactions to your cat.
  2. It is best to avoid all use of essential oils if your cat suffers from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
  3. Avoid letting cats, especially those suffering from medical conditions, into rooms with high essential oil concentrations. This is critical if you don’t want your cat to suffer from more severe conditions like liver failure.
  4. If you have other pets, never apply essential oils directly on them. These are not approved herbal remedies and pose a risk to cats since they can ingest them if they groom themselves or their canine companions. This may also cause skin irritation.
  5. If you must use active or passive diffusers, use them only for short periods of time. 

If your cat accidentally comes into contact with any essential oil and is showing symptoms of possible poisoining, contact your vet immediately or take them to an emergency clinic for immediate medical treatment. Check with your veterinarian if you are uncertain about the safety of an oil you intend to use on your cat. 

Cat parents should consider their cat’s safety at all times. If you like aromatherapy but know that your cat won’t appreciate it, then either do it somewhere else away from your feline pal or skip it altogether for their safety. 

Check out more blogs about pet safety from Be Safe to learn more tips on keeping your pets at home safe.  

Do I Need A Child Safety Kit?

Daisy Jensen
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15
Do I Need A Child Safety Kit?

Nothing is worse for a parent than receiving an America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response (AMBER) Alert for their child. While we don’t want the unthinkable to happen, we must be prepared for anything.

Child abductions are an increasing concern and child safety experts advise parents to be prepared with a child safe kit. However, you must be wondering, do I need a child safety kit with so many scams around?  To answer that question, you must thoroughly understand these child identification kits. 

What’s Inside A Child Safety Kit?

A child safe kit is an information packet containing essential details about your child. It includes the following:

  • Basic information card:
    • Full Name (first, middle, and last)
    • Nicknames
    • Birthdate
    • Age, Weight, Height, and Sex
    • Hair Color and Eye Color
    • Ethnicity
    • Unique and identifying features (glasses, birthmarks, scars, piercings, etc.)
    • Medical Information (doctor’s name, medications, allergies, blood type, etc.)
    • Emergency Contacts (Including a current address)
    • Fingerprints (You can use inkless fingerprints or a black inkpad)
    • Other notable physical characteristics to help identify your child
  • Most recent colored photo of your child (Candid photos are good since they show your child in a natural setting.)
  • DNA samples (They can be nail clippings, hair strands, bloody bandages, cheek cell samples, etc.)

Keep this information inside an envelope or a packet and store it away with other necessary documents in a safe place that you can access in case of an emergency. Hopefully, you never have to access this kit. 

The Purpose of Child Identification Kits

We hope this never happens but in case your child goes missing, a child safe kit will help law enforcement officials locate your child more efficiently. If you suspect your child has been abducted, call 911 immediately.

Unlike adults, you don’t need to wait 24 hours before a child is considered missing. An AMBER alert will be issued, and police officers will immediately scout the area and look for your child. 

To help their search, the police will require basic information and other identifying details about your child. A child-safe kit will be handy since you can turn it over and get the search going quickly. 

Where To Buy Child Safe Kits?

A child safe kit is normally available for free at your local police department. You can just request for one, bring it home, and complete it with your child. There are also printables available for free in the Internet that you can download and use.

However, if you want to purchase low-cost child safety kits, you can do so from legitimate retailers. Just be wary of scams who pretend to give you a free child-safe kit in exchange for personal information or an insurance sales pitch.

Don’t give your personal information or your child’s information online or over the phone. Scammers will probably ask you for your personal information in connection with an identification kit for children.  

If you decide to go the DIY route, your biggest concern may be getting DNA samples of your child. The process is very simple. Hair strands and nail clippings can be used as DNA samples. Ensure they are kept in a clean, labelled envelope. 

If you want a cheek swab, you can easily do this using cotton swabs. Just get a clean swab, remove one tip, then run it over your child’s cheeks and gums. Let it air dry and don’t let it come in contact with anything else.

Once dry, secure the sterile swab in an envelope for safekeeping. If this sounds too complicated for you, just get nail clippers and cut your child’s nails to get nail clipping samples. 

Are Child Safe Kits Worth It?

Every parent wants their child to be safe. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your kids are safe is priceless. We can’t watch out for kids all the time especially if they’re out playing with friends and we’re busy with our day-to-day tasks. It’s important to take precautions, like assembling a child-safe kit, to keep them safe. 

The AMBER Alert system has recovered 1,144 abducted children as of May 2022. Child safety kits play a big role in making this system seamless and fast. 

For more articles about child safety, you can visit our blogs at Be-Safe.

Can You Put Neosporin On A Cat?

Daisy Jensen
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13
Can You Put Neosporin On A Cat?

First-aid kits should always include Neosporin. It is a triple antibiotic ointment, and it’s great to have in your medicine cabinet, but should you use it on cats? The short answer is no. Neosporin can irritate their skin and cause allergic reactions in our feline friends.

If you want something to treat your cat’s wounds, you should always get an ointment from a professional veterinarian. You could also get a few other essentials that are great for feline first-aid.

There are also some at-home remedies that you can pull out in a pinch that your little buddy will surely be grateful to you for. 

Seeking Proper Help And Paying Attention To Signs

It cannot be stressed enough that you should always consult a veterinarian with any issues involving your pet before we get into what these are. Trusting their expert opinion when caring for your pets is always best. They are professionals for a reason.  

You can use these tips and tricks immediately to help your pet. Still, bringing them to a veterinarian is always a good idea, especially if the problem is more serious. If your cat is actively bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the wound with sterile gauze. 

Your goal here is to get the bleeding under control with the right topical ointments. Once you do, check your cat for any minor wounds. If they’re in too much pain, rush them to a professional vet immediately. 

If you find old wounds on your cat that are no longer actively bleeding, these are easier to deal with. So long as they aren’t deep or too big, you can clean them with a dilute antiseptic solution like povidone-iodine. Afterward, you can clean the wound with sterile gauze and saline solution.

Suppose you find superficial wounds that are deep or look like puncture wounds, clean them with an active ingredient like a saline solution. Next, bring your furry friend to an emergency clinic as soon as possible.

Building A First Aid Cat Kit

No one wants to see their pet in an emergency, but we should always be prepared for it. Cats need a first-aid kit, but placing Neosporin in it will probably not help. The first thing that should always be there is the number of the closest veterinarian and emergency clinic in your area. 

Having all the information on your cat is vital when getting their proper treatment for a speedy recovery and healing. You should have their vaccination history, important medical records, a photo, and their microchip number if they have one.

For your at-home first-aid cat kit, stock it with sterile gauze squares, clean cloth, pain medication, and non-stick or telfa pads. You should use blunt-ended bandaging scissors if you intend to keep them there.

Povidone-iodine and saline solutions are important for cleaning wounds. The last thing to have for external injuries is an e-collar or pet cone to keep them from messing around with their wounds.

Additional equipment that you could look into getting includes a rectal “fever” thermometer and a water-based lubricating gel for using it. When using it, remember that cats have a normal temperature of 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keep An Eye Out

Much information is floating out there about how to care for your pets properly. You can provide your hairy companions with the care they need and deserve by keeping yourself informed and aware of the dos and don’ts.

Read through our resources at Be-Safe to know more about peppermint oil and its effect on fleas for useful pet owner tips that could help.

Best Safety Door For The Home In 2022

Daisy Jensen
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17
Best Safety Door For The Home In 2022

As a refuge from the world, our homes are our safe-havens. Feeling safe in our own houses is important and an extra layer of protection should be in place in order to maximize our security.

However, there are so many security options out there nowadays, whether it’s adding smart locks, Google Assistants, window sensors, or motion detectors, keeping a home safe for you and your family is of utmost priority.

Home security doors are another simple, elegant, and easy way to add a little extra security to our homes. It goes beyond Google Home, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant– home security is about integrating better systems and less about DIY installations.

Doors with motion sensors and integrated smart home security systems are a lot easier to install and get into if you’re looking for a mix of security products, but how do you go about choosing one? 

Prime-Line Security Door

Prime-Line Security Door

This stylish door by Prime-Line is made of sturdy steel. It features a 24-gauge perforated steel mesh, a 1″ by 1″ welded steel frame, and three heavy-duty tamper-proof hinges.

As for the design, it is a Woodguard door with a traditional screen door look and is stained with a light oak finish. Amazon’s page features a how-to video showing how to install the door, ensuring ease of installation from start to finish. The following are the door’s dimensions:

  • Mount frame: 3-piece 1.25″
  • Dimensions: 36″ by 80″
  • Frame 39″ by 81.5″
  • Bore: 2.125″
  • Backset: 2.375″ 

Precision Screen & Security Prod

Precision Screen & Security Prod

The door here is specifically from the Regal series of this manufacturer. The dimensions of the door are 38.5″ by 81.5″. It features a black steel security door with classic welding in the center.

The door has extra features like a full-length fly strap that keeps out intruders and expanded steel mesh. The door hardware is mounted with one-way screws. The package comes with the following dimensions:

  • Tubular steel door frame: 0.75″ by 0.75″
  • Hinge bar: 1″
  • Striker and header bar: 1″
  • Double lockbox: 2.125″ bore; 2.375″ backset.

Viz-Pro Quick Mount Steel Security Door

Viz-Pro Quick Mount Steel Security Door

This white security door has a frame size of 34.625″ to 37″ by 81.6875″. It has hinges on the right and the knob on the left when viewed from the inside. 

The product includes a frame, stainless steel handles, four heavy-duty lift-off hinges, and a lock with a 9 to 12-point locking system. There is also an anti-jemmy lip around the frame.

The 0.0625″ frame has built-in steel strengthening, and the 2″ thick door leaf is filled with fiberglass or mineral wool. Lastly, this door has a reinforced panel for a friction stay or door closer, a threshold that is easy to take off, and weather sealing.

Windows Of Opportunity

These are just a few of the doors that are available to you on the market. All three of them also have the added bonus of simple installation. Any one of these is top-of-the-line security equipment that can reliably protect and guard your home, leaving you worry-free.

However, getting a security door is not the only way to provide you and your family with more security. Ensuring you have a smart home like voice control and entry sensors in various parts of your home is another way to elevate your smart devices’ security protocols. 

Another opportunity to enhance smart home systems is to read more about security products. You may also subscribe to professional monitoring plans or pay monthly monitoring fees to get more protection in certain parts of your home. 

For more extreme scenarios like those restraining orders or those with big families can also consider different security solutions that go beyond smart locks and window sensors. This means hiring security detail, especially if you have a large home or tend to attract a lot of unwanted attention. 

If you’re not keen on replacing an entire door, getting locks for existing windows and doors can go a long way. Learn more about sliding door locks for a child-safe home, read through our blogs at Be-Safe today! 

Best Kitten Litter Box For Cat Owners

Daisy Jensen
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19
Best Kitten Litter Box For Cat Owners

One of the first things you need to put your kitten or cat through is litter box training. There’s a chance that some cats or kittens already know how to use a litter box, but if they require a little nudge or some assistance, then getting one that suits them can help immensely.

This is also helpful when you’re introducing your cat to a new environment. Having a designated place for them can make the adjustment a whole lot easier.

In order to help cat owners with their needs, Be-Safe.org has compiled a few products that could just be the perfect litter box for your feline friend.

Van Ness Kitten And Cat Starter Kit

Van Ness Kitten And Cat Starter Kit

The Van Ness kit is great for when you’re new to being a pet owner. It comes with a framed litter box that’s 19 x 15 ⅛ x 7 ½ in dimension as well as a litter scoop to pick up any type of litter from your cat.

There is also a double-sided feeding dish for cat food, a water bowl, and a 12-ct box of litter liners. The items are made from high-polish, BPA-free plastic and are quite durable. This material also makes the set fairly easy to clean.

IRIS Open Top Litter Box With Shield & Scoop

IRIS Open Top Litter Box With Shield & Scoop

This cat litter box is a little more closed off and can be great for pets that are a bit shy. It is compact, with a recessed bottom and molded-in feet, making it easy to place in all sorts of different spaces.

Due to the open-top design, your cat or kitten can easily access it while you can clean it. The walls are also fairly high, which should help stop unwanted litter spray and keep the outside of the litter box clean.

The box and matching litter scoop are made of high-quality plastic and shouldn’t be too difficult to clean up. Overall, this box is fairly easy on both you and your furry friend.

Petmate Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box

Petmate Arm & Hammer Large Sifting Litter Box

This next box doesn’t come with a scooper like the other two and instead features a sifting box. It comes with one of those and two regular boxes as well. The idea is that the sifting lets loose litter pass through while leaving solid clumps of cat waste behind, which should eliminate the need for scooping. 

The box is made of recycled materials, so it’s advertised as environmentally friendly. The company that makes these boxes prides itself greatly on this fact. The box is built with micro ban protection to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria for odor control.

For this to be at its maximum effectiveness, the litter would need to be replaced with clean litter regularly and the box would need to be replaced every 12 months. Anyone who had to deal with litter box odors would tell you that this is a good feature not to overlook.

Cat Owners Clean Up!

These are just a few of the litter boxes that are available on the market for you to choose from. The important things to keep in mind are durability, ease of cleaning, and size as well.

Last but not least, kittens rarely stay kittens for long. It’s not always right to assume that one size fits all. It’s always important to make sure that you’re buying the right box for the right pet.

If you’re a pet owner looking for more helpful pet products for your home, then read through our resources at Be Safe to know more about the pet-safe doggie doors on the market.

Water In Basement: Dos And Don’ts

Daisy Jensen
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9
Water In Basement: Dos And Don’ts

Wet basements are a nightmare for any homeowner. They can be difficult to deal with and, in many cases, compromise your health.

These two reasons are why it’s important to deal with wet basements immediately. The best way, however, remains to prevent it from happening in the first place and keep your basement dry. Otherwise, you’ll end up dealing with structural damage and mold growth through concrete walls.

One of the biggest determinants of whether or not your home is at risk of having a flooded basement is the area that you live in. The first step is always to check how at-risk you are.

That being said, all basements with concrete walls can flood. When water outside the concrete accumulates, it applies pressure to it, known as hydrostatic pressure. Eventually, as this pressure increases, the concrete cracks, causing water to rush into the basement and flood.

To avoid this, waterproofing and drainage are two things to keep in mind. There are many things to consider when investing in this. Thus, learning and remembering what to do and what not to do is important. 

Do Proper Research

There are three main ways to waterproof your basement. Those methods are interior waterproof sealants, exterior waterproofing, and drainage. Each has its use and should be applied in different situations.

It all depends on the home’s circumstances. This should always be carefully determined before settling on any one method.

Do Find The Leak

One of the first things to do when fixing a leaky basement is to cut off the source of the leak. Unless the leak is stopped, the basement will flood again at some point, which is why preventing it is so important.

Do Keep Drains/Gutters Clear

Keeping these clean should be a regular and scheduled activity. If the water were to build up and then dump into the foundation, that could cause serious structural damage. Always keep them clean of debris and check for clogs that need to be cleared immediately.

Don’t Rely On DIY Sealants

Sealants you buy from the store can be useful, but these should always be treated as temporary solutions. Whenever a problem arises, don’t always rely on temporary fixes. The first time that it floods take appropriate immediate measures, but always go for a long-term plan that protects the entire basement.

Don’t Ignore Leaks

Don’t ignore leaks, no matter how small, even if your finished basement hasn’t flooded yet. These leaks could be small signs of much bigger problems. Even if they aren’t, they can quickly grow to become one themselves.

Once you find a leak, deal with it immediately, and, as we previously stated, don’t settle for temporary solutions. Always fix things with the long-term in mind.

Don’t Let Water Be Directed To The Foundation

The downspouts, rain gutters, and anything else that’s supposed to direct water away from your foundation should never do so. Always throw these away so water doesn’t build up around your foundation. This is key to having proper drainage. 

Do Stay Informed

As with anything concerning safety, your best shot is to keep your head straight and remain informed. Stay up to date and informed on all things health and safety.

If you’d like more dos and don’ts just like this, read about general safety tips one should know in their home and even in their place of work at our blogs at Be-Safe.

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