Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 12

Uninvited Pests: Bed Bug Inspection and Discreet Removal

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Image of magnifying glass viewing a bed bug on a mattress.

Dealing with unwelcome pests, especially bed bugs, can be a significant source of discomfort and worry. These minuscule, blood-feeding critters are notorious for invading residential and commercial spaces, leading to unease, health issues, and potential financial loss. Immediate action is essential if you’re concerned about a possible bed bug infestation. In this article, we’ll discuss how Northern Pest effectively and discreetly tackles the challenge of identifying and eliminating bed bugs.

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs, while adept at concealing themselves, still leave noticeable clues. When checking your space for these pests, keep an eye out for the following signs:

  • Bites: Look for itchy, red bites on your skin, often grouped together or in a straight line, suggesting bed bug activity.
  • Small, Rusty Stains: You might find tiny blood spots on your bedding or mattress, which occur due to bed bugs’ feeding patterns.
  • Eggs and Exoskeletons: Examine the nooks of your mattress, furniture, and even wall crevices for shed skins or small, pearl-like eggs.
  • Unusual, Musty Smell: A significant bed bug infestation is often accompanied by a unique, sweet, musty smell.

Bed Bug Problems: Choose Northern Pest!

Northern Pest is your trusted partner for discreet and expert bed bug extermination. Here’s why we stand out:

  • Professional Expertise: Our technicians are extensively trained in identifying and eliminating bed bugs, guaranteeing a comprehensive and successful extermination process.
  • Confidential Service: We recognize the delicate nature of bed bug issues, and our discreet operations minimize attention to your property.
  • Safe, Eco-Friendly Methods: The treatments we use are not only effective but also safe for your family, pets, and the environment, emphasizing eco-friendly solutions.
  • Comprehensive Follow-Up: Post-treatment, our team conducts meticulous follow-up inspections to confirm the complete removal of bed bugs, ensuring lasting comfort and reassurance.

Exterminating Bed Bugs

Our thorough strategy in exterminating bed bug infestations is proven to work:

  • Inspection: Our team conducts a thorough inspection to gauge the severity of the infestation, which helps us formulate an effective treatment strategy.
  • Treatment: We use a mix of heat and chemical treatments, complemented by specialized tools, to target and eliminate bed bugs at every stage of their lifecycle.
  • Proactive Measures: We offer guidance on preventive practices to help avoid future bed bug problems, including advice on keeping your environment bed bug free.

Bed bugs have the potential to rapidly transform your residential or commercial space into a place of discomfort and anxiety. Prompt action is crucial in addressing a bed bug infestation. Northern Pest’s specialists are equipped to assist you in detecting and eradicating bed bugs, restoring tranquility and safeguarding the well-being of your family or patrons.

Don’t let bed bugs overrun your home or business – contact Northern Pest to regain control today!

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Northern Pest: Our family serving yours! We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to offer professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Northern Pest

The Difference Between Bus Duct and Busbar

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Busbars refer to metallic bars or strips which carry electrical current within electrical switchgear. These busbars are incorporated into bus ducts, a type of sheet metal duct that houses a sequence of busbars. Bus ducts offer an efficient and adaptable alternative to conventional conduits for electrical installations, simplifying the process of installation and modification.

Bus ducts are commonly used in environments where the busbars might be susceptible to damage or exposed to weather conditions. A standard bus duct system includes multiple copper or aluminum conductors, known as ‘buses’, arranged parallelly and connected to a power source.

What is Busbar Used For?

Busbars, available in several forms with distinct advantages and some limitations, are primarily used for electrical load carrying and heat dissipation. The most prevalent type is the solid busbar, which is the most cost-effective and made from a single piece of metal like copper or aluminum. In the United States, copper busbars are preferred, while aluminum is commonly used elsewhere. These busbars connect different components in electrical panels and switchgear. Due to their copper or aluminum construction, they are highly conductive and offer better resistance to corrosion.

Busbars find applications in various settings across numerous industries, including roles in:

  • Electrical switchgear
  • Power distribution systems
  • Motor control centers
  • Battery banks
  • Solar panels
  • Wind turbines

What is Bus Duct Used For?

Bus ducts are used primarily for the efficient distribution of electrical power in various settings, particularly in industrial and commercial buildings. Bus duct provides a high degree of electrical efficiency for both low- and high-amperage conditions. It’s also incredibly versatile, thanks to advancements such as elbows and offsets. These developments allow bus duct to adapt to directional changes.

Bus ducts are widely used in a variety of industries due to their efficiency in distributing electrical power, especially in large-scale facilities or where power requirements are substantial. Some of the key industries that commonly use bus ducts include:

  • Manufacturing and Industrial Plants
  • Data Centers
  • Commercial Buildings
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Educational Institutions
  • Energy Sector
  • Entertainment and Sports Venues
  • Transportation Hubs

Why is Bus Duct Important for Conducting Electrical Power?

The significance of bus ducts in conducting electrical power lies in several key aspects:

  • Reliability: Bus ducts ensure a steady and dependable power supply to electrical devices and systems, minimizing the likelihood of power disruptions and equipment malfunctions.
  • Safety: The metal enclosure of bus ducts safeguards electrical connections and cables from damage. It also helps prevent accidental electrical contact, enhancing safety for both individuals and equipment.
  • Ease of Maintenance: Designed for straightforward access, bus ducts facilitate quick repairs and component replacements, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance expenses.
  • Space Efficiency: Compared to conventional cable trays, bus ducts occupy less space, making them suitable for areas with limited room.
  • Flexibility: Bus ducts offer the convenience of being easily modified or extended to meet changes in electrical system requirements, thereby providing a versatile solution for various building types and equipment.
  • Energy Efficiency: Bus ducts enable more effective power distribution control, which can prevent circuit overloads and lower energy consumption.

Looking for bus duct or other heavy electrical parts/equipment? We have a large 50,000 sq. feet facility with experienced and motivated staff; if we don’t have the product you are looking for, we’ll find it. When you want quality equipment at a reasonable price – fast, call J&P Electrical and we’ll get it done!

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

J & P Electrical Company

New Year, New Solutions:

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Elevating Your Business Computer Systems and Software to the Next Level!

As we enter 2024, we want to extend our warmest wishes to you for a prosperous and innovative year.  New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for personal growth; they apply to businesses too! We believe it’s the perfect time to rejuvenate your business computer systems and software to drive success in the coming year.

A resolution can be a powerful catalyst for positive change in your company, and CPS is honored to help!

Streamlined Efficiency: Start the year with improved productivity and streamlined operations. Our tailored solutions are designed to optimize your business processes, reducing bottlenecks and enhancing efficiency.

Cutting-edge Software: Upgrade your software arsenal with the latest tools and technologies. Stay ahead of the competition by harnessing the power of innovative software solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Enhanced Security: Protect your business from cyber threats with state-of-the-art security measures. Our experts will ensure your data remains safe and your systems are fortified against potential breaches.

Expert Support: Don’t navigate the digital landscape alone. Our team of expert technicians is ready to assist you with implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting whenever you need it.

Cost-effectiveness: We understand the importance of budget-conscious decisions. Our solutions are not only effective but also designed to provide maximum value, ensuring your investments yield significant returns.

CPS proudly services all your business computer needs, from IT support to custom programming and software applications, website design, online marketing, and more. Explore our range of services and learn how we can help your company reach new heights. 

IT Services

  • Computer Consulting
  • Computer Repair
  • Computer/Server Building
  • Data Recovery & Backup
  • Network Wiring & Infrastructure
  • Virus Removal & Anti-Virus Installation
  • Managed IT (break and fix, full, remote, anti-virus & system health monitoring)

Software Development

  • Business Phone Apps (manage data in the field, real-time sync)
  • Barcode Apps (scan, sync, and print barcodes)
  • CRMs (large software to handle leads, sales, products/packages, and tons more!)
  • Inventory Management (manage supply and demand of your products)
  • Programming (update/enhance, integration, compliance, etc.)
  • Websites & Design (E-commerce, custom admin portal)

Digital Marketing

  • Search Engine Placement (enhancement)
  • Social Media Marketing (account set up, posting)
  • Paid Ad’s, including Hiring Ad’s (Google, Bing, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Reddit)
  • Graphic Design (logos, marketing materials, website)
  • Web Analytics
  • E-mail Marketing
  • Content Writing

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll work closely with you to identify your business’s unique needs and develop a tailored plan to achieve your goals. Here’s to a year filled with growth, prosperity, and success!🚀

Not sure where to start? We’re here to help guide you!

Schedule a Consultation

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Creative Programs and Systems

Unlock Real Estate Investment Opportunities with DSCR Loans

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

With careful planning and a strategic approach, DSCR loans can pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable venture into the world of real estate investment. Read on to learn more about Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans.

Navigating Cash Flow Concerns in Real Estate Investments

Investing in real estate can be both exciting and daunting, especially when considering the financial implications. Traditional mortgage products often require a detailed history of personal income, which can be a significant hurdle for investors who may not have a steady income stream but possess substantial investment potential. This is where DSCR loans come into play, offering a unique solution for aspiring real estate investors concerned about cash flow issues.

Understanding DSCR Loans: A Key to Real Estate Investment

DSCR loans are designed specifically for investment properties and focus on the cash flow generated by the property itself, rather than the investor’s personal income. The key metric here is the DSCR, a ratio that compares the property’s annual rental income to the annual mortgage debt service (including principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and homeowner association fees, if applicable). A DSCR of 1 means the property’s income covers all its annual debt, while a higher ratio indicates a surplus. Lenders typically look for a DSCR of 1.25 or more, providing a cushion against potential vacancies or unexpected expenses.

The Advantages of DSCR Loans for Real Estate Investors

DSCR loans offer several advantages. First, they allow investors to qualify based on the property’s income potential, bypassing the traditional income verification process. This is particularly beneficial for self-employed individuals or those with variable incomes. Additionally, these loans often come with the option for interest-only payments, further easing the initial cash flow burden. This flexibility can enable investors to scale their portfolios more rapidly.

Making an Informed Decision: Is a DSCR Loan Right for You?

While DSCR loans offer a path to investment for those concerned about cash flow, it’s essential to approach them with a clear understanding of the risks and benefits. These loans might carry higher interest rates than traditional mortgages, reflecting the lender’s increased risk. Additionally, investors should have a solid plan for managing the property, ensuring it generates sufficient rental income to cover the loan and other expenses.

For those looking to dive into real estate investment but worried about cash flow constraints, DSCR loans can be a game-changer. By focusing on the income-generating potential of the property rather than the investor’s personal income, these loans open doors to investment opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. With thoughtful preparation and a tactical approach, DSCR loans can lay the foundation for a successful and enduring journey in real estate investment.

Looking for a mortgage solution that fits your needs; contact or call (616) 228-8797 EB Mortgage today!

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

EB Mortgage

Tips for Maintaining Your Pool During Severe Winter Weather

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Even though your pool might not be a priority in the winter, it’s crucial to understand how harsh, snowy conditions can affect it. Here are essential tips to ensure your pool remains in excellent condition during the cold months.

Clear Heavy Snow: While light snowfall isn’t a problem, significant accumulation on your pool cover is a concern. Gently remove excess snow using a soft broom or skimmer net, but avoid walking on the cover, even if the water underneath appears frozen.

Guard Against Freezing: If your pool isn’t winterized and a freeze is imminent, have a plan ready. Keep the pump running at high speed to prevent freezing if the equipment is still connected. Avoid using portable heaters, heat lamps, or electric blankets on the pump or filter, as these can cause damage and fire hazards.

Establish Boundaries: To prevent accidents and discourage people from accidentally stepping on the pool cover, place visible markers like rubber cones, empty buckets, or similar items around the pool’s perimeter.

Inspect for Damage: Falling tree limbs laden with snow or ice can damage your pool cover. Remove them quickly and check the cover for any rips or tears, which can let debris into the pool. Small tears can be patched, but larger or multiple tears might necessitate a cover replacement.

Ensure Cover Security: Keep your pool cover firmly attached to your deck or yard, and make sure that any loose items, such as patio furniture, are secured against windy conditions.

Emergency Winterization Steps: In an emergency, turn off the pool’s circuit breaker, open the air relief valve, and remove water from all valves. Set your multiport valve to “winter.” Place air pillows, inflatable floats, or empty plastic jugs in the pool to prevent tile damage from ice expansion. Use a weighted plastic bottle in the skimmer for protection, and wrap a towel around the auto-fill vacuum breaker for insulation.

If you’re pre-planning a pool renovation, call us to schedule an inspection and estimate.

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Pound Pool Plastering

Tips for Maintaining Your Pool During Severe Winter Weather

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Even though your pool might not be a priority in the winter, it’s crucial to understand how harsh, snowy conditions can affect it. Here are essential tips to ensure your pool remains in excellent condition during the cold months.

Clear Heavy Snow: While light snowfall isn’t a problem, significant accumulation on your pool cover is a concern. Gently remove excess snow using a soft broom or skimmer net, but avoid walking on the cover, even if the water underneath appears frozen.

Guard Against Freezing: If your pool isn’t winterized and a freeze is imminent, have a plan ready. Keep the pump running at high speed to prevent freezing if the equipment is still connected. Avoid using portable heaters, heat lamps, or electric blankets on the pump or filter, as these can cause damage and fire hazards.

Establish Boundaries: To prevent accidents and discourage people from accidentally stepping on the pool cover, place visible markers like rubber cones, empty buckets, or similar items around the pool’s perimeter.

Inspect for Damage: Falling tree limbs laden with snow or ice can damage your pool cover. Remove them quickly and check the cover for any rips or tears, which can let debris into the pool. Small tears can be patched, but larger or multiple tears might necessitate a cover replacement.

Ensure Cover Security: Keep your pool cover firmly attached to your deck or yard, and make sure that any loose items, such as patio furniture, are secured against windy conditions.

Emergency Winterization Steps: In an emergency, turn off the pool’s circuit breaker, open the air relief valve, and remove water from all valves. Set your multiport valve to “winter.” Place air pillows, inflatable floats, or empty plastic jugs in the pool to prevent tile damage from ice expansion. Use a weighted plastic bottle in the skimmer for protection, and wrap a towel around the auto-fill vacuum breaker for insulation.

If you’re pre-planning a pool renovation, call us to schedule an inspection and estimate.

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Pound Pool Plastering

The Growth of Microgrids in the US

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In the past four years, the number of microgrids in the US has grown by 11%. These systems, often utilizing new infrastructure and clean energy sources, particularly benefit critical facilities connected to the primary grid. It’s important to mitigate the risks associated with conventional electrical grids while harnessing renewable energy. However, despite nearly 700 microgrids nationwide, they contribute less than 1% to US electricity.

Jim Matheson of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association notes that microgrids are three to ten times more expensive than standard grid electricity. Still, they offer significant reliability and resilience for specific sites. Schneider Electric, a major player in this field, has developed numerous microgrids in the US and abroad, including a significant project at Yokota Air Base in Japan. This microgrid, part of a $400 million investment, ensures the base’s energy resilience, especially in emergencies.

The Yokota microgrid can function independently (in “island mode”) or alongside the main grid, highlighting the importance of microgrids in providing backup and resilience. Yet, experts emphasize the need for broader infrastructure upgrades across the electric grid for enhanced protection against various threats. Former Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Neil Chatterjee points out that microgrids can minimize large-scale blackouts caused by cyberattacks or other disruptions.

In California, the vulnerability of the power grid led to the exploration of renewable energy solutions. For instance, the Miramar Base combines landfill methane gas and solar power, capable of supporting over 100 critical buildings for up to 14 days. In 2020, the base’s microgrid prevented blackouts in 2,000 San Diego homes during a utility grid overload. Similarly, remote microgrids in Alaska, some universities, and JFK Airport’s TWA Hotel operate independently, underscoring the versatility of microgrids in various settings.

Florida’s Babcock Ranch community, with nearly 7,000 residents, also embraces microgrid technology, mostly powered by solar energy. Babcock Ranch founder Sydney Kitson describes the community as a pioneer in solar battery facilities, serving as a testing ground for new technologies. Connected to Florida’s main grid, the community balances solar power with natural gas from Florida Power & Light, aspiring to increase its off-grid capabilities with advancements in battery technology.

Babcock Ranch’s resilience was proven during Hurricane Ian, where it sustained minimal damage, retaining power and water services throughout the storm. This underscores the potential of well-planned, resilient communities in coping with natural disasters.

The growing popularity of microgrids can be attributed to their ability to address pressing energy challenges, ranging from climate change mitigation to grid resilience and energy access. As our energy landscape continues to evolve, microgrids are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable, resilient, and decentralized future.

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State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor of Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

State Electric Co.

Protecting Your Solar Panels from Nesting Pigeons

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Investing in solar panels is an excellent step towards sustainable energy, but it comes with some challenges, particularly when birds and pigeons choose to nest beneath them. Understanding the problems caused by these unwelcome visitors is vital to keeping your solar panels and roof in quality condition. Whether a homeowner or a business owner, preventing your solar panels from becoming a haven for birds and pigeons is important. Front Range Pest can proactively help you preserve the functionality and integrity of your solar panels and roof, translating into cost savings and guaranteeing the well-being of those in your vicinity.

 Why Do Pigeons Like to Nest Under Rooftop Solar Panels?Birds and pigeons are drawn to nest beneath rooftop solar panels for several reasons:·         Protection/Shelter: The area under solar panels offers a safe and covered spot, sheltering them from harsh sunlight, and adverse weather conditions like rain, wind, or snow, and predators. ·         Warmth: As solar panels soak up sunlight, they emit heat. This retained warmth beneath the panels forms a perfect setting for birds and pigeons to nest and remain warm. ·         Seclusion: Typically, there is a slight gap between the solar panel and the roof, providing a peaceful nesting space for birds and pigeons, isolated from human activities and other disruptions. Damage Caused by Pigeons While Nesting Under Solar PanelsThe presence of birds and pigeons nesting under solar panels can lead to various types of damage, impacting not only the solar panels and roof but also posing potential health risks:·         Reduced Solar Panel Performance: The accumulation of bird droppings on the panels can obstruct sunlight, leading to decreased solar efficiency. ·         Roof and Panel Damage: Nesting can disrupt the normal water drainage and air circulation beneath the panels, resulting in water damage and potential overheating. This may cause long-term damage to both your roof and the solar panels. ·         Health Risks: Birds and pigeons are known carriers of diseases like Histoplasmosis, Salmonella, and E. coli, and can also host parasites such as bird mites. Their nests pose a health risk to you, your family, and your pets. ·         Higher Maintenance Needs: Regular cleaning and repairs are often necessary to keep your solar panels functioning properly and address pest-related issues. ·         Ongoing Costs: Consistent maintenance checks and cleanings are essential to maintain the integrity of your solar panels, which can lead to increased regular expenses.In addition, pigeons are loud. You will notice when they have begun to nest under your Solar Panels due to the noise that follows them. From scratching, scurrying, and chirping, your sleepless nights will begin. Pigeon Proofing Your Solar PanelsSolar panels are a significant long-term investment, making maintenance and optimal utilization crucial. Bird-proofing involves setting up a barrier around the edges of your solar panels to block pigeons and birds from accessing the area underneath. Once these birds cannot find refuge under your solar panels, they must seek shelter elsewhere. Thus, bird-proofing your solar panels emerges as an ideal and permanent solution to this problem. What Does Pigeon Proofing Services Include?·         Clearing out any present nests or pigeons from under the solar panels and the nearby vicinity, ensuring no birds remain trapped beneath the panels. ·         Thoroughly cleaning the solar panels and the general roof area by sanitizing the surfaces and eliminating bird droppings and nesting debris. ·         Implementing the pigeon-proofing solution you prefer. Available choices range from bird mesh wire or bird blockers, anti-roosting spikes, or a solar skirt (an aluminum edge fitting.)At Front Range Pest, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you address these concerns. We offer professional solar panel bird and pigeon-proofing services to keep your investment in tip-top shape. To schedule an inspection or learn more about our services, contact us today. Are pigeons nesting under your solar panels? Call Front Range Pest (970) 889-0425 for humane removal and prevention. ______________Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Front Range Pest

Kitchen Design Trends for 2024

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Overall, kitchens are adopting a cozier feel, a shift from sterile all-white designs to warmer wood cabinetry. Kitchen islands are growing in size and utility, resembling dinner tables with more welcoming L-shaped seating arrangements for better interaction. While blue remains a favored kitchen color, various shades of green are on the rise. Beyond traditional boundaries, kitchens are expanding their presence with refrigerator drawers in diverse spaces like bathrooms and home offices, accommodating beauty products and more. Additionally, home bars are making a resurgence as social gatherings return post-pandemic.

What does the kitchen of the year look like? We list the top twelve growing design trends of 2024 from top designers and the most recent report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association. 1. Outdoor dining with window walls – like restaurants with a garage door that opens for al fresco dining, homes are following suit to bring the outdoors inside with oversized windows and glass walls. 2. Kitchens that mimic the great outdoors – being one with nature is all the rage nowadays. Homeowners are layering neutral colors like warm whites, earthy greens, and textured wood tones to give a harmonious feeling in their kitchen. 3. Green is a recurring theme – designers agree that all shades of green, from deep saturated tones to soft, muted shades, are making a comeback on everything, including the walls, tiles, and cabinetry.   4. Building a more sustainable kitchen – people are utilizing more eco-friendly trends such as built-in recycling stations and energy-efficient appliances.  5. A large kitchen island – kitchen islands are becoming a more significant design focus, sometimes even doubling up (as big as 20 ft.) as opposed to two smaller ones.  6. Stainless steel refrigerators that are fingerprint-proof – new fridges incorporate smudge-proof finishes and LED lighting to keep your appliance more efficiently illuminated and clean.  7. Developing a ‘soft modern’ aesthetic – blending modern designs with classic elements such as a high gloss finish on cabinetry offsetting a matte wood finish for open shelving. Fusing European-inspired designs with contemporary ones will promote this aesthetically pleasing kitchen. 8. In-room coffee and cocktail bar – expand the kitchen into your bedroom, etc., with hotel-like amenities such as a built-in nook for a morning cup of coffee or a well-earned nightcap. Installing a refrigerated drawer in the home office to hold drinks and snacks or in the master bathroom to keep toiletries.  9. Beverage station – carving out a beverage station within your kitchen will become the #1 modification, according to design experts. People want a dedicated area to pour wine and make coffee.  10. Quartz countertops are the preferred choice – why? Because quartz countertops are low maintenance, highly durable, and easy to clean. Following in popularity is quartzite, then granite. 11. Minimalism is key – more people are leaning towards a functioning kitchen with a minimalist look, often with flat-panel designs, stain-resistant materials such as quartz, and plenty of storage space. Countertops that seamlessly extend into the backsplash are a plus, too. 12. Gold kitchen faucets are becoming more popular – it’s predicted that gold may surpass stainless steel and black finishes in 2024. Bronze and copper finishes for lighting fixtures will be popular as well.  Are you planning a kitchen upgrade for 2024? Then, contact us or call (810) 923-1123 for a free estimate. _________JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Jason Foldenauer Construction

How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia and Frostbite

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

For those who spend time outdoors in the winter, either for work or leisure, it’s crucial to understand how the cold impacts your body. Cool temperatures increase the risk of encountering serious health issues like hypothermia and frostbite. Be sure to safeguard yourself against cold conditions, which can rapidly escalate into emergencies, posing significant threats to life and limb.

How Cold Weather Affects You

When exposed to cold weather or immersed in cold water, your body experiences several changes to conserve heat, particularly around vital organs. Freezing conditions, combined with factors like wind, rain, and sweat, can significantly reduce your skin temperature and overall body heat. Contact with cold surfaces and even breathing will further drop your body’s temperature, so it’s vital to seek warm shelter.   

To maintain its core temperature, your body restricts blood flow to extremities such as your face, arms, hands, legs, and feet, making these areas more susceptible to frostbite. Additionally, a slight drop in core body temperature can lead to hypothermia, impacting the functioning of your brain and body. If hypothermia becomes severe, it can be life-threatening.

How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather

  • Be aware of the temperature and wind chill. Take note of the highs and lows of the day, dress appropriately, and be prepared with extra clothing, etc., in case you’re held up.
  • Wear proper clothing that covers all your skin, and dress in layers. Layering your attire and wearing the right shoes/boots, hat, scarf, and gloves will offer you the best protection. The inner clothing layer should wick sweat away from the skin. The middle layer should insulate and keep heat in, while the outer ‘breathable’ layer should repel wind, snow, and rain.
  • Avoid staying in the cold too long, take breaks regularly, and don’t let any body part get exposed to the cold. Stay active to maintain body heat.
  • Drink plenty of warm fluids (tea, water, etc.), but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which will dehydrate you.  
  • If signs of hypothermia or frostbite emerge, immediately seek shelter from the cold.

How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F, and hypothermia sets in when your body temperature drops below 95°F. This condition can affect the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well, which makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because the person may not realize it’s happening and won’t be able to take appropriate actions.

The primary objectives of first aid are to reestablish a normal body temperature and provide care for any related issues until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel arrive.

What Are the Signs of Hypothermia?

  • Shivering
  • Numbness or weakness
  • Glassy stare
  • Lethargy or impaired judgment
  • Loss of consciousness

What Should You Do if Someone Has Hypothermia?

  • Call 9-1-1.
  • Gently move the person to a warm place.
  • Monitor their breathing.
  • Give rescue breathing and CPR if needed.
  • Take off any wet clothing and ensure they are dry.
  • Gradually warm the person by wrapping them in blankets or dressing them in dry clothing.
  • Do not warm the person too quickly by placing them in warm water. Instead, use hot water bottles or chemical hot packs wrapped in a towel or blanket before applying.
  • Warm the person’s core first (trunk, abdomen), not the extremities (hands, feet).

How to Identify and Treat Frostbite

Frostbite is a cold-related injury that occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to extremely cold temperatures. It most commonly affects body parts that are farther from the heart and more exposed, such as the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.

What Are the Signs of Frostbite?

  • A cold and prickly feeling in the affected area.
  • Numbness or a lack of feeling in the affected area.
  • Skin that appears waxy, is cold to the touch, or is discolored (flushed, white or gray, yellow or blue)
  • Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness.

What Should You Do if Someone Has Frostbite?

  • Move the person to a warm place.
  • Handle the area gently; never rub the affected area.
  • Warm the affected area gently by soaking it in lukewarm water (100–105 degrees F) until it appears red and feels warm.
  • Loosely bandage the area with dry, sterile dressings.
  • If the person’s fingers or toes are frostbitten, place dry, sterile gauze between them to separate them.
  • Avoid breaking any blisters.
  • Do not allow the affected area to refreeze.
  • Seek professional medical care as soon as possible.

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