Emergency Flares and Water: Do They Mix?
Most flat tire or vehicle survival kits contain chemical roadside emergency flares. These invaluable additions are bold, bright, and noticeable in most emergencies, but what about rain? The question of whether these flares are waterproof is a valid one. Thankfully, most roadside chemical flares are water-resistant. This means they will work if exposed to a… Read more
Drawing Solar Panel Energy at Night
Solar panels work with help from the sun, which provides light converted to power. Photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s energy, converting it to DC electricity, and a solar inverter converts DC into AC electricity to use throughout the building. Optimism is growing around how solar panels can continue to generate a substantial amount of energy… Read more
United States Military Tests Wavefront-Guided PRK
With more than 30,000 to 40,000 members of the United States military choosing laser vision correction procedures to improve their vision each year, there is an emphasis on clinical research to examine the efficacy and safety of various procedures available. A somewhat novel laser vision correction technique, called wavefront-guided PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), was recently studied… Read more
Toxic Chemicals Taint Metro Detroit Drinking Water
Flint and Benton Harbor have become notorious for their toxic drinking water, but they aren’t the only Michigan communities with bad water. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), millions of people throughout Metro Detroit are innocently consuming contaminated tap water with toxins linked to cancer, brain damage, liver disease, reproductive issues, nervous system problems,… Read more
Easing Arthritis Pain with Hand & Wrist Exercises
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that causes pain, inflammation, joint deformity, and eventually, deterioration. The body attacks its own joints, particularly the hands and fingers, which can ultimately lead to loss of hand function. Exercising or moving joints can help alleviate pain, strengthen muscles, increase fine motor skills, grip strength, and more. Try… Read more
Choosing Kitchen Countertops Made Easy
With a seemingly never-ending variety of countertops available for kitchens, what should you choose? Consider material durability as well as color. Here are six popular color choices to help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams. WoodAn excellent choice for giving your kitchen some character, wood can break up crisp, white kitchens or add some… Read more
Bus Duct 101
Bus duct is a familiar sight to electricians, but what about the terms “busbar” or “busway?” Keep reading to learn about this vital aspect of electrical distribution. The automotive industry first introduced busways in 1932; since then, it has expanded to serve many other industries. Busway is just another word for bus duct, which provides… Read more
Ice Safety Tips
Lakes can be a great place to enjoy activities on or near the ice. However, no ice is ever considered “safe,” as there’s no reliable measurement to determine whether it’s sturdy or will not break. Snow acts as an insulator and slows the freezing process; therefore, snow-covered ice should be considered unsafe because the ice… Read more
Positive Outlook on the Horizon for Contractors
Thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that was passed in November 2021, contractors country-wide are optimistic about their 2022 prospects. However, according to a survey report released by the Associated General Contractors of America, significant challenges still remain. Over 1,000 American contractors were surveyed, and many were positive about the available bidding projects… Read more
What Affects Vehicle Gas Mileage?
For many people, their vehicle serves as their primary form of transportation. Whether it’s going to work, home, school, grocery stores, etc., our cars get us where we’re going. A significant aspect of owning a vehicle is gas mileage. Stopping for gas is as ubiquitous as planning your next meal; filling up both your gas… Read more