SATURDAYS edition ofLockdown Scepticsreminded us that care-home cruelty is continuingunder the Governments callous coronavirus policy.

Relaying a heartbreaking email hed received from a reader, Toby Young asked: when will this needless cruelty end?

The letter read:

I am desperate and beside myself having received some information from my fathers care home today. It is only allowing one member of his family to visit him for 30 minutes once a fortnight. Full PPE,outdoors and at two metre distance.

What is most upsetting is that it is a reduction in what we have been managing to do to try to support him since March. We have been allowed by the care home to see him through double glazed patio doors for 30 minutes, twice a week. So down from four visits a fortnight to one.

I cannot see an end to these restrictions in care homes and I am now, more than ever, certain I will never see my father in person again before his natural death. There must be more to the end of a persons life than this loneliness and being deprived of family support and love.

Please do print any aspects of this on the website as you feel fit.

A very very sad day for my family today.

Another reader in touch withLockdown Scepticsrelates how hedbeen told by his friends care home that hes not even able to send flowers. The guidance issued by the home includes the following gem: We are unable, unfortunately, to accept any flowers, due to the inability to sanitise them.

Were there any evidencethat the Governmentspolicy had protectedcare home residents or had saved their lives, there might have been an excuse for temporarily locking them away from their families. But not only is therenone, the evidence is that the governments policy succeeded in doing the reverse far from curbing the death rate, theirofficious and tin-eared edicts exacerbated it.

It is over five months now since TCW first warned of the fatal flaws in their policyand that a crisis was about to unfold with rotating shifts of unprotected and untested staff.It is four months since we (and other media) reportedOffice for National Statistics (ONS) data which showed that the number of deaths in care homes haddoubled since pre-crisis, from 2,471 in week 11to 4,927 in week 15, but that only 826 of those deaths a third of them were actually Covid-19 related.

So what was happening? We asked (but the Government did not) whether patients were dying of neglect and understaffing as had been reported in Spain; whether also from sheer misery at their apparentabandonment by their locked-out families?

Two months later, in mid-June, the shocking news broke that to clear beds hospitals had discharged 25,000 Covid-infected geriatric patients back to their care homes in the first weeks, which we reported here,putting an impossible strain on institutions already ill-equipped to manage the virus.

By this stage, also in the public domain was thatat least 15,000 care-home residents had died from Covid-19. Analysts LaingBuisson predicted that care homes would account for half of Englands coronavirus-related deaths. Despite this,the Department of Health and Social Care continued to maintain that it took the right decisions at the right time.

As if it couldnt get any worse, moreONSdata on Britains care-home gulag was released in early July.

The headlineswerebrutal.Forty per centof Covid-19 deaths to date were care-home residents and of 54,430excess deaths(above average) in England and Walesover half (54 per cent) were care-home residents, confirming the deadly impact of the isolation caused by blanketlockdown policies.

Here we are coming towards the end of August and letters like those received by Toby Young reveal that littlehas changed and that the Government has learnt nothing. It remains deaf to the dreadful consequencesof its lockdown and social distancing policies on care homes, and blind to its continuing inhumanity.

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Original post:
Cruelty still unchecked in the care-home gulag - The Conservative Woman

Real EstatePublished: Wednesday, 19 August 2020 21:42 Sophia Albert

The luxury market showed some life this week with three sales over $3 million. See what sold and find many appealing homes on the market below.Sales80 Sheldrake RoadThis beautiful home is set on a one acre on a tranquil tree-lined street. This magnificent center hall colonial in Murray Hill/Heathcote Elementary School was completely renovated. Totally private with incredible landscaping. Sunny throughout - 7000 interior square feet including high-end eat-in kitchen with family room with gas fireplace, mudroom and backstairs, butler's pantry, second family room and beautiful all glass solarium with radiant heated floor-enjoy nature all day long. Second floor: master suite and each of the six bedrooms have walk-in closets plus five bathrooms and two half bathrooms.The entire back of the house looks out to amazing property, room for a pool, large bluestone terrace, backyard is all fenced in. Circular drive for easy living. Whole house generator.

Sale Price: $4,250,000Assessed Value: $3,825,000Real Estate Taxes: $90,052

9 Oak LaneThis red brick six bedroom/five bathroom/3 powder room Center Hall Georgian Colonial on a premier street in Scarsdale radiates elegance. In this new world, two home offices overlooking resplendent property is a gift. The gourmet chef's kitchen with marble countertops, custom cabinetry, Wolf stovetop/oven, Subzero fridge/freezer, Bosch dishwasher, Wolf microwave and under counter fridge drawers is the heart of this home. Hardwood floors throughout complement unique architectural details. The first floor boasts an oversized living room with fireplace, dining room ready for entertaining and the coveted family room right off the kitchen. Upstairs is the spa-like master suite with an exquisite master bath and oversized walk-in closets, 3 family bedrooms and bathrooms. Lower level included in overall square footage with a rec room with a climbing wall, gym, billiard room, two bedrooms, and 3 baths. The house sits perfectly on an ideal, level, private piece of property - a short distance from the village, train and schools.

Sale Price: $4,050,000Assessed Value: $3,950,000Real Estate Taxes: $98,125

8 Brittany CloseMagnificent custom-built home of unsurpassed quality on Brittany Close in Scarsdale, a tranquil enclave of 12 homes designed by award-winning architect Carol Kurth. Built in one of the best locations on Brittany Close, this six-bedroom, eight-bath Colonial boasts .67 acres of level manicured property, with a sweeping front lawn, three car garage, private yard and a gorgeous outdoor heated pool and spa. Soaring ceilings, custom millwork, and windows and doors of the finest quality are hallmarks of this architectural beauty. No detail was overlooked in this luxurious home with perfect flow for modern living and gracious entertaining. The luxe gourmet eat-in kitchen opens directly into the huge family room accented by a stone fireplace and doors to the pool deck. A true oasis, the master suite features a balcony, den, gas fireplace, spa bath with steam shower, jetted tub and radiant heated floors. The walk-out lower level has a playroom, bedroom, two baths, laundry, and gym.

Sale Price: $3,180,000Assessed Value: $3,000,000Real Estate Taxes: $74,837

6 Prince Willow LaneBeautiful colonial in quiet neighborhood in the Scarsdale School District set on gorgeous, level half acre. This six-bedroom, 4.5 bath home has 4,300+ square feet of living space, including two master suites (one on the first floor, ideal for extended family), a first-floor office and a 300+ square foot bonus family room on the second floor. Highlights include: bright kitchen/family room with vaulted ceiling, surround sound speakers, wet bar, wood burning fireplace and sliders to the flagstone deck; second-floor laundry; wainscoting, California Closets and plantations shutters throughout; in-ceiling speakers (indoor and out); 4 zone heating, including radiant floor heating in kitchen, fenced-in yard with swing set, Ninja Warrior course and graveled oasis with fire pit; central vacuum system; in-ground lighting; and a 2,400 killowatt whole home natural gas generator. This rare gem also comes with a free bus to Quaker Ridge Elementary School, Scarsdale Middle School and Scarsdale High School.

Sale Price: $1,850,000Assessed Value: $1,894,000Real Estate Taxes: $43,561

5 Chedworth RoadWork from home or walk to train from this elegant, sun-filled Cotswold home with many high end upgrades. Beautifully set on a tranquil road, its features include a gracious marble entry and flexible floor plan, spacious living room with fireplace that opens to a sunny family room/play room with french doors to a private patio and level backyard. Large formal dining room that leads to a music room/den, chef's eat-in kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, butler's pantry, radiant heat floor, laundry and doors to deck. Powder room, two bedrooms and full bath on main level, plus five more amply sized bedrooms and three full baths on the second floor, including a master bedroom with large, custom designed walk-in closet and en-suite bath with whirlpool and separate shower. Spacious lower level with powder room. Professionally landscaped four season garden with specimen plantings, new 2-zone hydro air heating ventilation and air conditioning system, mahogany floors, slate roof and generator. Square footage does not include 577 square feet of finished storage in lower level.

Sale Price: $1,805,000Assessed Value: $1,681,700Real Estate Taxes: $57,052

2 Berkeley RoadCharming, updated and expanded Greenacres colonial style home. Old world style combines with modern conveniences. There are high ceilings, an oversized fireplace, home workspace on the first floor (or second or third), a flat and fully fenced backyard, a beautiful expanded eat-in kitchen with professional grade appliances, a family room and walk to train are just a few of the desirable features of this home.

Sale Price: $1,600,000Assessed Value: $1,575,000Real Estate Taxes: $38,885

26 Old Lyme RoadStunning multi-level home on an oversized corner lot with tons of natural light and a wrap-around yard with gorgeous trees. Step inside to find gleaming hardwood floors throughout, a marvelous floor plan and the largest and most spacious rooms you will find out there. The kitchen (with stainless appliances and granite countertops) is huge; the bright, cheerful formals are huge, the living room with pampered fireplace is huge and wait until you see the bonus room. With its own private entrance, you will find a bonus room so large you can use it as an office for 6, comfortably and easily. Ideal for the work-from-home professional. Also ideal for a member of the family who wants privacy from the rest of the gang. The home is very easy to divide into separate areas affording plenty of privacy for all. Three of the six bedrooms are in one wing and the other three are in a separate wing. The options are endless in this beauty.

Sale Price: $1,350,000Assessed Value: $1,000,000Real Estate Taxes: $24,000

54 Sycamore RoadLarge 5 bedroom and 4 bathroom home in the revered Quaker Ridge section. This one-owner home since 1973 sports a grand entrance foyer with new hardwood flooring and a vintage spiral staircase leading to the second floor and has been freshly painted inside and outside. Large eat-in kitchen with an island, separate formal dining room and large living room and family room with a rustic wood burning fireplace. A huge walk out basement above ground with windows provides endless possibilities for renovation. Extensive landscaping has been done for maximum curb appeal. One bedroom on the first floor with a full hall bathroom is perfect for a guest bedroom/live-in Au Pair. Three spacious bedrooms plus a large master bedroom with en suite bath on the second floor. Laundry room is conveniently located on the first floor with a walk out to the gorgeous patio from the kitchen.

Sale Price: $1,200,000Assessed Value: $1,319,000Real Estate Taxes: $31,182

156 Brewster RoadThis beautiful home is walking distance to the train and backs up to the Greenacres School playground. It has all the charm of a 1926 house with all the modern conveniences. It has been very well maintained with a 5-year old (65 year) roof, a brand new oven, and also a brand new oil tank and burner. There are hardwood floors throughout, antique glass doorknobs, and lovely architectural details. The location of this house is perfect. It's on one of the most sought after, beautiful streets in Scarsdale and is convenient to transportation, shopping, and schools.

Sale Price: $1,200,000Assessed Value: $1,000,000Real Estate Taxes: $24,842

209 Brewster RoadColonial in the sought-after Greenacres neighborhood. The first level features a large living room with fireplace, a dining room/family room and an updated eat-in-kitchen with room for a work space or sitting area. The second level hosts a spacious master bedroom with a fireplace, en-suite bath and walk-in closet, plus two additional bedrooms with a renovated hall bath. This level also includes a bonus room, perfect for a home office and/or gym. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout. On the lower level, you'll find a large recreation room with full bath, plus an additional room that could be a guest or nanny's room. This home sits on a tranquil, corner lot and has multiple spaces to enjoy the outdoors, with a deck off the living room and flagstone patio off the kitchen. Truly the perfect home for everyday living and entertaining. Numerous improvements include a new roof and copper gutters, upgraded drainage pipes, new boiler, and basement dehumidifying system.

Sale Price: $1,150,000Assessed Value: $1,050,000Real Estate Taxes: $26,632

18 Ardmore RoadChic, turn-key Heathcote home, set on a level lot on a tranquil street and well-located only a few blocks to elementary school, nursery schools, Five Corners shopping, Crossways playground and fields, and the Scarsdale Pool. The first level boasts an open-plan renovated kitchen/family room, formal living room with fireplace, formal dining room, spacious study, powder room, patio, and two car garage. The second level features a gorgeous master bedroom with ensuite bath, two additional large bedrooms, and a full hall bath. The lower level includes a large room, laundry, storage and utilities. The perfect layout for everyday living and formal entertaining plus a first level office that could double as a guest room.

Sale Price: $1,105,000Assessed Value: $1,025,000Real Estate Taxes: $25,450

19 Hamilton RoadWonderfully maintained 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Tudor in the heart of Scarsdale. Gourmet eat-in kitchen includes Viking and Wolf appliances, Christopher Peacock cabinetry and marble counters. All baths are updated. Bonus room in the basement can be used for music studio/exercise room. Amenities: new electric, new above oil tank, cedar closets, and slate roof maintained yearly by professional local company. Many improvements include: newly polished hardwood floors, freshly painted inside and out. Walk to Edgewood Elementary School.

Sale Price: $1,069,000Assessed Value: $900,000Real Estate Taxes: $23,811

12 Robin Hill RoadBright Center Hall Colonial on a beautiful and peaceful street in Edgemont within walking distance to schools, train station, shops and restaurants. The oversized Living Room with fireplace, built-ins overlooks the large patio with built-in benches. A formal dining room opens to a newly renovated modern kitchen with Quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. There is also an additional guest room/home office and full bath on the first floor. The window seat on the second floor landing is a special touch. Master bedroom with renovated master bathroom, two additional bedrooms and hall bath. The lower level has a tiled family room with built-ins, laundry area, ample storage and door to tandem two car garage. Level fenced-in private yard. New central air conditioning and new windows.

Sale Price: $990,000Assessed Value: $981,000Real Estate Taxes: $33,343

Featured Listings15 Brookby RoadScarsdale, NYListing Price: $3,650,000Picture perfect Colonial on park-like property in the Murray Hill section, perfect for everyday living and entertaining inside and out. The interior impresses as you walk into the entry with a 2-story family room with views of the property and pool gives you the feel of country club living. Living room, large dining room, all with high ceilings, open layout and walls of windows, chefs kitchen with island/breakfast area.Learn more here.

221 Griffen AvenueScarsdale, NYListing Price: $2,495,000Comfort, quiet elegance, amazing outdoor space. This welcoming colonial home has been beautifully remodeled. Generous formal living and dining rooms flow to a large kitchen for casual dining that opens to a family room with a vaulted ceiling, fireplace and stunning French double doors to a private deck creating seamless indoor/outdoor space that spans across an immense backyard bordered by Winged Foot Golf Club, home to the 2020 US Open!Learn more here.

4 Bradford RoadScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $2,200,000An exceptionally maintained Tudor set on a spectacular half acre of level and private property on a tranquil street, only 2 blocks to Quaker Ridge Elementary School. The first level features a formal living room with fireplace leading to a screened porch with access to the patio overlooking the gorgeous property, a formal dining room, eat-in-kitchen with premium appliances opening to large radiant-heated family room with sliders to the patio and yard, renovated powder room, mudroom, laundry and a 2.5-car garage. The second level boasts a beautiful master bedroom suite with separate office, luxurious master bath with jacuzzi tub, shower and separate water closet, walk-in closet, four additional bedrooms and two renovated full hall baths. The lower level includes a recreation room and wine storage. Enjoy the Scarsdale town pool, tennis courts, parks and highly-ranked schools. Only a 32 minute commute to Grand Central. Free bus to Middle and High School. Don't miss this impressive home!Virtual tourLearn more here.

6 Brookline RoadScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $2,200,000Stunning Collet-built, renovated Tudor in beautiful Sherbrooke Park, a sought-after private neighborhood. The first level features a foyer, formal living room with fireplace and Venetian plaster ceiling, formal dining room with Venetian plaster ceiling, expansive kitchen with a 6 burner Viking range, Wolf convection wall oven and microwave, Sub Zero Fridge/Freezer, two dishwashers, Jerusalem stone counters and a Brazilian marble island, radiant heated floors and a large breakfast or family room with coffered ceiling, family room with built-ins and gas fireplace, powder room, bedroom and full bath. The second level includes a large master bedroom with home office area, 2+ walk-in closets and a renovated ensuite bath, three bedrooms, 2 full hall baths and a family room. The third level contains fantastic bonus space. Recreation room, laundry, mudroom and 3 car attached garage on lower level. Smart home with Savant and Nest systems. Walk to High School, town and train. A+ location!Learn more here.

22 Woods LaneScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $2,150,000Gorgeous, Neoclassical Colonial in the heart of Edgewood on sought-after Woods Lane, a short walk to Elementary, High School, town and train on a tranquil tree-lined street. This beautifully built 1930s home has been updated and expanded to offer a large eat-in-kitchen with adjacent family room with a gas fireplace overlooking the level property. The first level also includes a formal living room with wood-burning fireplace, formal dining room, large, private office, powder room and attached 2 car garage. The spacious second level features a master bedroom with renovated ensuite bath and walk-in closet, two bedrooms with ensuite baths and two bedrooms with a jack-n-jill bath. The lower level boasts a playroom with fireplace, laundry and storage. Dine outside on the patio all summer long and enjoy Scarsdale schools, town pool, tennis courts and a 32 minute commute to Grand Central. Upstairs air conditioning updated June 2020. All interior walls recently painted and floors refinished. Move right in!Learn more here.

4 Parkfield RoadScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $1,895,000This sun-filled Fox Meadow contemporary home was fully renovated in 2014 and is conveniently located only a short walk to downtown shopping, dining and Metro North train for the express train to NYC. Walk to Elementary School, High School and the Public Library. The fabulous first level open plan layout has a great flow for entertaining and features an expansive family room with vaulted ceiling adjacent to a chef's kitchen plus formal living and dining rooms. A few steps to a large bedroom with ensuite bath plus two bedrooms with a full bath. Up a few more steps to the new master suite with a luxurious master bath ensuite plus a spacious walk-in closet, two bedrooms with ensuite baths, and ample storage space. The lower level includes a bright study with fireplace, large mudroom and two car garage. The finished basement level boasts a large playroom, laundry, room and bath. Free bus to Middle School. Don't miss this ideally located, renovated home with Scarsdale schools and amenities. Virtual tourLearn more here.

16 Pheasant RunScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $1,215,000Renovated and stylish Contemporary Colonial in the Edgemont School District located on a beautiful, private almost half acre of level property. This beautiful and bright home offers a gorgeous cook's kitchen with an expanded breakfast area which seats six, custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, granite counters, center island and large pantry. Some of the other special features include: renovated and expanded master bath with oversized shower and heated floor, updated powder room (1st level) and full bath (lower level), renovated master bedroom with oversized closets, custom closets in 3 bedrooms, new furnace (2020), hot water heater (2019), driveway (2018), replaced fireplace, renovated laundry room, built-ins in family room, interior six paneled doors, new front door and painted interior (2020). The finished lower level has a recreation room, potential nanny's/in-law suite with full bath, gym/office and great storage. This exceptional home is the one you have been waiting for!Learn more here.

Open Houses6 Mayflower RoadScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $2,895,000Open House: Sunday 8/23/2020 2pm - 3:30pmBright new 6,672 square feet, six-bedroom, Center Hall Colonial on level half acre. This house has a classic layout with a gracious entry that opens to the living room and dining room. The Chef's kitchen: Wolf stove, two Bosch dishwashers, 48" SubZero refrigerator, microwave, wine refrigerator, granite countered island, quartz topped countertops opens to a big bright family room with fireplace and lots of windows overlooking the level property and patio. Additionally, there is a bedroom/den and full bath, guest powder room, and outfitted mudroom on first floor. Upstairs is a master bedroom with tray ceiling, his and hers walk-in closets, and spa bathroom. There are three generously sized bedrooms each with their own bathroom and a generously sized laundry room. The lower level is bright with oversized windows and it is very open. There is a bedroom and bathroom as well. 2432 square feet on first floor, 2149 square feet on second floor, and 2091 square feet finish the lower level. Potential pool site.Learn more here.

96 Walworth AvenueScarsdale, NY 10583Listing Price: $2,495,000Open House: Sunday 8/23/2020 2pm - 3:30pmFabulous, sunny, move-in ready, open floor plan, new Colonial home in Greenacres close to the Train and Hartsdale village. There are nine-foot ceilings on every level. The first floor has a bright living room, dining room, big kitchen-family room with fireplace and oversized windows and door to big patio, powder room, garage, mudroom, big food pantry, and a butler's pantry with beverage refrigerator. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a tray ceiling, two fully outfitted walk-in-closets, and bright master bath with marble tile, two sinks, contemporary tub and separate shower, there are two bedrooms with connecting bathroom, and a bedroom with its own bath. The lower level has a big finished "L" shaped play room, full bath and a 5th bedroom/home office. The lush landscaping includes a newly sodded lawn, and many flowering bushes. Square footage is: first floor-1752 square feet, second floor-1892 square feet, lower level-1571 square feet.Learn more here.

29 Bonaventure AvenueArdsley, NY 10502Listing Price: $799,000Open House: Sunday 8/23/2020 12:30pm - 2pmIt's easy to fall in love with this diamond in the rough. This beautifully maintained Cape sits at the end of private cul-de-sac in the award winning Ardsley School District. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom home has two separate living areas, peaceful outdoor space with deck and an above ground pool plus patio and outdoor kitchen area. Perfect for entertaining with plenty of space to spread out. Ideal if you need to work from home. The main floor living area has a beautifully renovated open floor plan kitchen/family room with plenty of light and a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two additional bedrooms, and a second hallway bathroom. The upper level has a kitchenette, outdoor deck, living room and one additional bedroom with bathroom. Lower level includes an additional family/recreation room with wood burning fireplace, wet bar, bathroom and laundry area. Two-zone central air, and Central Vac, sprinkler system and outdoor lighting, and so much more. Endless possibilities in this home!Learn more here.

More here:
Three Sales Above $3 Million In Another Strong Week for Home Sales in Scarsdale - Scarsdale10583.com

Nora Austons older cat, Bertie, has a history of getting into trouble while roaming her Portland neighborhood. The feline teamed up with another cat to ambush and taunt an elderly dog in its backyard, and also took down dozens of birds, despite having bells dangling from her collar.

When cats Peaches and Herb were adopted as kittens, Auston, a professional nurse who taught herself construction, decided to build a catio, a safe, screened cat patio that would direct her cats away from the house through a skybridge or tunnel and into the yard.

Her inventive enclosure will be one of 10 outdoor feline playgrounds in the Portland area showcased online during the 8th annual Catio Tour on Saturday, Sept. 12.

The coronavirus pandemic wont allow in-person visits to peoples backyards as in past Catio Tours, but this years virtual experience includes a professionally filmed tour and a live Q&A with experts and other catio fans.

People who were not able to walk around or be in the Portland area for previous tours can now enjoy it from their own home.

Tickets on sale at CatsSafeAtHome.org are $25 for full access to the tour, presentation, guidebook, catio videos and images; or $15 for the guidebook and catio videos and images only.

Hosted by the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon and the Audubon Society of Portland, the fundraising Catio Tour was created to inspire cat owners to build or buy their own outdoor cat enclosure to keep cats safe from outdoor hazards while also protecting wildlife from cat predation.

Funds from the Catio Tour support the Portland Audubons and Feral Cat Coalition of Oregons Cats Safe at Home campaign, which aims to reduce free-roaming cats in the Portland metropolitan area. For more information about the campaign, visit CatsSafeAtHome.org.

A cat patio lets frisky felines exercise, play out hunting instincts and safely snooze in the sun while getting fresh air. They cant bother birds, and dogs, cars and other outdoor hazards cant harm them.

The birds really need a break and our shelters need less homeless pets, says Auston, and I think catios are a good solution to both of those problems.

Auston attended the in-person 2019 Catio Tour a total blast! she says and found other cat patio examples on Pinterest, but some were a bit misleading, she says, so I had to think through the project carefully.

She selected to build a cat condo with cedar since she wanted a traditional-looking garden structure that would weather well.

Ive heard that cedar oil repels fleas as well, she adds. I havent seen any fleas on the cats since building our catio, so I am extra pleased I spent the money on the wood.

She used durable, -inch hardware cloth, rather than chicken wire, that was easy to cut for the walls and to fit on the ground to thwart digging.

Access doors have the wire attached on the outside of the structure to allow her to remove the screws and reach the cats if needed.

A number of catios Ive seen feature panels or tunnels that are constructed with the hardware stapled on the inside, which makes for a nice clean look but could be frustrating if your cat gets stuck somewhere along the way, she says.

Auston, who learned from her mistakes constructing a chicken coop, knew to install a few fencing panels at the end of the cats walkways to stabilize the entire structure when most of the weight is on one side.

She hired a professional to break through a wall in her house and install the cat door.

Now she can watch the cats frisking around, grooming themselves and pawing toward her through the fencing, she says.

The orange kittens now do crazy loops chasing each other through the house, out to the catio and back again a couple times a day, she says. We are home a lot more now and its made all of us cats included a lot more comfortable and it is endlessly entertaining.

A catio can be any size. A small window enclosure will work if youre short on space. Existing patios can be transformed into catios simply by enclosing them with screen or wire.

If you dont want at DIY cat enclosure, there are premade kits.

PetCo. has a wooden cat run on sale for $395.99 (save 34%) and Aosom has PawHuts large wooden outdoor cat condo at $444.99, which is 36% off, plus free shipping.

Wayfair has a variety of cat houses, cat cages and cat playpens on sale with free shipping.

Make sure the catio is fully enclosed so cats cannot get out and predators cannot get in. Add a cat flap to a door, window, wall cut, or build a tunnel or screened walkway.

Provide cats a view of the outdoors (called Cat TV) and ventilation. Monitor the weather: You might need a fan in the summer or a heater in the winter.

Include toys such as climbing shelves, scratching posts or trees.

Keep a litter box in the catio. Auston uses biodegradable, non-dyed, natural mulch to avoid any toxicities with the kitties.

Until the coronavirus pandemic is over, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends owners keep their pets away from people or other animals outside the household.

Cats should stay indoors or an enclosed outdoor structure when possible and dogs should be walked on a leash, maintaining at least six feet from other people. Avoid dog parks and public places where people or pets gather.

People sick with COVID-19 should avoid contact with people and animals. If your animals need to see a vet, PetPlan offers medical insurance.

If pets are healthy but anxious, due to separation or fear caused by loud noises, strange people or animals, or a new environment, there are ways to help:

Dog obedience training is essential to preventing and managing dog anxiety, according to the American Kennel Club. The Great Courses has online dog training videos and lectures to listen or watch on a TV screen, laptop, tablet and smartphone. Practice fetch with an obedience retrieving dumbbell.

Healthy food and hemp or CBD products are used to calm pets that have anxiety or hyperactivity.

Honest Paws has all-natural, vegan CBD bites and oils that cat and dog owners use to help their pet cope with daily stressors and enhance joint mobility. The products are free of Xylitol, GMOs, soy, corn, dairy and gluten.

Chewy has chicken-flavored, soft chew dog supplements made of organic hemp powder, chamomile, ginger and valerian root. And Ollie will deliver human-grade meat, fruit, vegetables and superfood to your door based on your pets age, breed, activity level, allergies and ideal weight.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation also reduce anxiety. Hide treats in multiple pockets of a snuffle mat to test canine foraging skills. Toss discs in FitPAWS dog training targets, or set up an obstacle course or an indoor agility course.

Wild One has a Triangle Tug made of dual-textured rubber with a cotton rope, and Bolt Bite is a natural rubber chew toy. Plush chew toys come in all shapes, from a wine bottle to a TV dinner. And Barkshop has a monthly BarkBox subscription of dog products, services and experiences.

Let your pet sleep soundly in a calming coat tucked into a donut-shaped comfort bed.

Orvis has dog toys and treats, crates and clothes, beds and bowls, collars and coats.

And Petco has cat toys, furniture and scratchers, beds and apparel.

Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072

jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman

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Explore 10 purr-fect cat patios from your home (and make one): See the 8th Annual Catio Tour virtually - oregonlive.com

Have I mentioned that my daughter and son-in-law and my adorable granddaughter are living with me right now? They sold their house and are waiting to move on to bigger and better. Im in hog heaven because when I come home a little voice screams, G. Its supposed to be Grammy, but I will take G. But the other night my daughter sat close to me and said in a quiet voice, Mom, I think you have foundation problems.

Well, I know I dont have foundation problems, but I do know it has been extremely dry lately and that can cause some shifting in foundations. Foundations are made to flex, so during extreme dry spells or lots of rain, they move. It can cause inconveniences, but its not cause for alarm. So, I want to go over some things that you can do to alleviate some problems associated with this dry weather.

The easiest thing to do is put a soaker hose around the house and water the foundation on the days that you are allowed to water. Just leave it there out for the duration of the summer. Buy yourself a Y connector and attach it to your outdoor faucet. That way you can water both the foundation and hand water when you want to.

Check out how convenience a Water Wigot can be. It will allow you to put water where you dont have a faucet. And then you wont have to drag around a 100-foot hose during this 100-degree heat.

Sometimes extreme dryness will cause doors not to close completely. You might have to push on the door to get it to latch. Maybe your door rattles when the A/C comes on, or its hard to get it to unlock. Defender Security makes an Adjustable Strike for just this problem. It will allow you to adjust the strike up to a quarter of an inch. And in door terms, thats a lot!

If you are really worried about your foundation, there is a way to check it out. Go outside and look around the foundation. If you see little hairline cracks, dont worry. They are just cosmetic and can be easily fixed. Use a product made by Sascho Sealants called Slab. Its for sealing up those little cracks around the foundation and on stucco. Foundations have a smooth concrete skirting and that can crack, and you can repair it with Slab. If you have some mortar cracking around the brick facade, use Mor-Flex to fill in the damage. Mor-Flex looks just like mortar, but it flexes. And when you repair the mortar with Mor-Flex, it will never crack again.

I hope if you have been concerned about your foundation this article will put you at ease. If you have any questions, call me at the store in San Antonio.

Question: I just sold my house and moved to a smaller condo. I love my condo because it has a large patio and I could bring all my plants with me. It makes me feel like I am still at home. However, there is no faucet outside. How can I water my plants without having to lug water from the sink. It didnt seem like a lot a first, but I have a lot of plants.

Answer: That is no problem! There is a faucet to garden hose adapter that can hook up right to your kitchen faucet. Attach a lightweight hose and start watering. Good luck with this next adventure.

Question: We have a master bedroom downstairs. We have an upstairs bathroom and bedroom that only gets used when we have company. Well the other day I was upstairs and noticed water under the toilet and quickly turned off the water. It was leaking from the connector. We replaced the connector, but I started thinking if I had not seen that, I could have had a mess. Do you have any suggestions about turning off the water to the unused bathrooms?

Answer: Instead of turning off the water, use a Leak Alert under the toilet. Leak Alert has sensors on the bottom of the unit, and when they get wet, it sets off an alarm. All leaks start off as a drip, and Leak Alert will let you know.

If you cannot find the products mentioned here locally, you can find them at http://www.happyhandyman.com . Click on Shop Johnnies Favorites, or call the store at 210-341-1573. Email Trudy Chuoke Lesage at happyhandyman2@yahoo.com. Mail can be sent to Johnnie Chuokes Home and Hardware, 2361 NW Military, San Antonio, TX 78231.

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Shifting foundations can be inconvenient but not a cause for alarm - Houston Chronicle

The City of Lacombe has introduced a new Patio Policy aimed at making the process of building a new on-street patio easier for the businesses who apply, as well as the city staff who process the applications.

The new policy, introduced at the August 10th council meeting, lays out a streamlined process whenever someone wants to expand their seating to the great outdoors, something that's become more and more common in the pandemic era.

Director of Operations and Planning for the City Jordan Thompson said this policy has been in the works since before the pandemic as the desire for an expanded space increase, particularly for places that serve food and drinks.

We have an attractive downtown and the patios allow residents, visitors, tourists to take advantage of that scenery when they are eating. We wanted to ensure were supporting that through a fair approval process.

Thompson says the pandemic has certainly forced us to change how we think about a lot of things, and the City wanted to make it easier for businesses to adapt to these new changes.

We are seeing businesses inquire about innovative ways to use the space that they have. Innovative ways to use the outdoor space that may be available that previously was perhaps used for storage, or for kind of back-of-house type of uses that they want to clean-up and repurpose for more business purpose, and so we are exploring those applicants and ensuring that we can support those businesses the best we can through our Land Use Bylaw.

A number of on-street and private property patios have sprung up in Lacombe this summer, including at Tollers Bistro, Leto's Steakhouse and Bar, and an alley patio located behind Ugly's Pub and Grill. Cilantro and Chive have had their patio open for over a year now, and Boston Pizza has had outdoor patio seating since they first opened their doors.

As the current global pandemic is making people re-think the way they do business, restaurant's in Alberta are doing what they can to get as many people as possible safely through their doors.

It...

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Want to build an on-street patio for your business? Lacombe now has a Patio Policy for that - LacombeOnline.com

A woman is worried about the security in her home.

A woman is worried about the security in her home.

Photo: RapidEye, Getty Images

A woman is worried about the security in her home.

A woman is worried about the security in her home.

Dear Abby: Take over security responsibilities

DEAR ABBY: My husband has a bad habit of forgetting to lock up our house at night when he's the last one to come to bed. On nine occasions I have gone downstairs after he's in bed or awakened in the morning to find our sliding patio door or a garage door unlocked.

I cannot understand why this isn't a priority for him. If I'm the last one to come up for the night, I make sure each door is locked, lights are off, etc. It takes me less than a minute. We live in a suburb, and while our neighborhood is relatively safe and quiet, I'm not naive. I realize anything can happen anywhere.

We have two large dogs, but I have no idea how they'd react to an intruder. Frankly, I don't want to find out the hard way. The most frustrating thing about this is, when I try to talk to him about it the next day, he blows it off and says our dogs would never let anyone get far, or he makes a joke about it. I've tried many different approaches, from being calm and sweet to solutions-focused: "How can I help you remember?"

Recently, likely because I'm 37 weeks pregnant with our second child, I lost it and chewed him out after I waddled out of bed to go downstairs and found our sliding door unlocked. It didn't work very well.

I'm at my wits' end. It was one thing when it was just the two of us, but now we're about to have two kids under 2, and I get furious thinking he could be putting all of us in danger. He has taken no responsibility or steps toward fixing this.

I have now reached the conclusion that when I'm home, I must be the one who assumes the responsibility of ensuring our home is secure before we go to bed. But what if I fall asleep early or if I have to travel for work? Any ideas on how to address this with him?

Losing sleep over this

DEAR LOSING: You have already addressed this with your husband. That he is so careless about the safety of his wife and children is shocking. He appears to be very immature.

Because he seems incapable of assuming any responsibility for locking up, you are going to have to do it. There are high-tech ways to remotely lock doors from afar, and you should explore that option.

Also, for your own peace of mind, have a professional dog trainer or other experienced dog person enter your home through the unlocked door while you and your husband are upstairs because, while the dogs might not attack a stranger, they might alert you to the presence of an intruder. I suggest this because many years ago my very tame German shepherd did exactly that.

DEAR ABBY: Due to the coronavirus epidemic, handshaking is no longer being practiced. I have never been a fan of handshaking anyway. In the future, it may be acceptable to forgo handshaking altogether. What will be the best way to avoid it without seeming unfriendly or germophobic?

Resisting in Minnesota

DEAR RESISTING: Try doing what I do. I place both palms together in front of my chest as though praying, smile and greet the person. No one has been offended by it, and it's a common way people greet each other in India.

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Dear Abby: Take over security responsibilities - The Hour - Thehour.com

Napa | $3.2 MillionA Carpenter Gothic house built in 1856, with four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, plus a one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse, on a 0.2-acre lot

Built as the home of Johnson Horrell, a Napa County judge, and his wife, Sarah, this house was the first on its block. In 1890, it was moved to a new lot, now within walking distance of downtown Napa. In the late 1940s, the house was subdivided into apartments. The current owner, who bought it in 2015, turned it back into a single-family house and did an extensive renovation to restore its original splendor, using raw materials sourced from the house.

Size: 3,830 square feet

Price per square foot: $836

Indoors: The exterior has many elements of Carpenter Gothic style, popular in the United States in the mid-19th century: a steep, gabled roof, decorative bargeboard and a symmetrical facade anchored by a central pediment.

A walkway made of bricks repurposed from the home leads to the stoop. Behind the front door believed to be original is a long hallway and a curved wooden staircase, with a half bathroom tucked underneath.

On either side of the entry hall are formal entertaining spaces: to the left, a sitting room, and to the right, a dining room. Like the rest of the house, these rooms have period light fixtures added by the owner and refinished fir floors. Several paces beyond the sitting room is a study with wood panels and a redwood ceiling, both salvaged from other parts of the house.

At the far end of the hall is a family room with a wood-frame fireplace. It flows into a contemporary kitchen with marble counters and stainless steel Thermador appliances. On the far right side of the kitchen is a butlers pantry with a leaded-glass window.

On the second level are three bedrooms. At the top of the landing is a guest room large enough to hold a full-size bed and a bathroom with a wooden vanity and walk-in shower.

A hallway extends from the landing to a set of French doors that opens to a street-facing balcony. To the right is another guest room; to the left is the master bedroom with an en suite bathroom that has black-and-white-tile floors.

The third floor is now configured as a large bedroom suite with a bathroom that has a claw-foot tub, set under a window with views of the back of the property.

Outdoor space: Off the family room is a wooden deck with space for an outdoor dining table. The backyard is lined with stones salvaged from the original foundation, and a brick pathway connects the main house to a Craftsman-style guest cottage added in 1907, with a kitchen and full bathroom. To the left of the guest cottage is a carriage house with an attached barn, used by the owner to display artifacts recovered during the renovation and materials related to the homes early owners.

Taxes: $42,561 (estimated, although the home is eligible for reduced property taxes based on the Mills Act, which provides economic incentives to homeowners for the preservation of historic properties)

Contact: Agi Vermes Smith, Engel & Vlkers, 707-363-9896; the horrellhouse.com

The homes and apartment buildings of Herbert W. Burns, a self-taught architectural designer, marry the sleek lines of midcentury modernism with the soft colors and organic materials of the desert. This house, clad in Arizona sandstone, was partially demolished before being bought and restored by Thomboy Properties in 2019.

It is in the Little Tuscany section of Palm Springs, near a number of historic properties, including Richard Neutras Kaufmann House and homes by Albert Frey and E. Stewart Williams. Palm Canyon Drive, a thoroughfare with many bars and restaurants, is a five-minute drive.

Size: 4,700 square feet

Price per square foot: $681

Indoors: A block wall separates the front courtyard and the swimming pool from the street, and a concrete walkway leads to the teal front door.

To the left of the entry is an open-plan living area with terrazzo floors and sliding-glass doors. To the right is a wall of exposed brick with an inset fireplace.

A floor-to-ceiling planter divides the living area from a dining alcove with a built-in teak bar and an open kitchen with an island and new appliances finished in teak. Beyond the kitchen are a butlers pantry and a guest suite with a pool-facing bedroom and a bathroom with a large walk-in shower. Also on this side of the house is a laundry room that connects to the rear garage.

A hallway partially lined in glass brick, with a small row of planted succulents extends from the entryway to the left wing of the house. On the near end is a guest bedroom with a textured accent wall and an en suite bathroom with a teak vanity and a glass-walled shower. At the far end of the hall is the master suite, which has sliding-glass doors that open to the pool area; the bathroom has a double vanity and a soaking tub brightened by a hanging starburst light fixture.

Outdoor space: To the right of the main house, forming a courtyard around the pool, is a two-bedroom guesthouse with terrazzo floors. This space has its own sitting area, a kitchen with custom navy cabinets and gold hardware, and a bathroom with a glass-walled shower.

Overhangs from the two structures offer shaded space around the pool; an outdoor kitchen is built into the left side of the courtyard. A lawn runs between the pool and the street-facing wall, but the rest of the landscaping features rocks and native desert plants. There is a concrete patio behind the house.

Taxes: $40,959 (estimated)

Contact: Keith Markovitz, TTK Represents, Compass, 760-904-5234; ttkrepresents.com

A city on the Monterey Peninsula with a little more than 3,800 residents, Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for storybook cottages that have names rather than street numbers. Many like this one, called Primrose Cottage are within walking distance of the beach and Ocean Avenue, the main drag.

The city has long been considered an artists enclave, and in the early 20th century it was a popular getaway spot for writers like Jack London and Sinclair Lewis. It has a number of small theaters, including the Forest, one of the oldest outdoor theaters on the West Coast, which is a 10-minute walk from the house. San Francisco is about two hours away by car, and Monterey is a 15-minute drive.

Size: 1,498 square feet

Price per square foot: $2,133

Indoors: Past the wrought-iron gate in front is a brick pathway that winds through a yard with English-inspired landscaping, including low hedges and rose bushes.

The arched front door, trimmed with iron strapping, opens to a living room with white-painted ceiling beams and a fireplace with a stone surround. Through an arched doorway at the back of the room is a hallway that leads to a half bathroom and a den with a bay of windows facing the guest cottage.

To the right of the front door is the dining room, which, like the rest of the house, has refinished hardwood floors. Through another arched doorway is the kitchen, which can also be reached through the den. The kitchen has white-tiled counters with white-and-blue-tile trim. A window over the sink looks into the rear garden, and a glass-paned door opens to the patio.

At the center of the house is a wooden staircase with a wrought-iron banister that leads to the second floor, which has two bedrooms on either end of a short hallway. The bedrooms are roughly equal in size, with room for queen-size beds, and both have street and rear-facing windows. A hallway bathroom has a combination tub and shower, a blue-tiled vanity with its original porcelain sink and gray-and-white floral wallpaper.

The guest cottage is connected to the main house by a brick walkway. It has a Dutch door, an exposed-brick fireplace and a bathroom with a stall shower and white-and-silver wallpaper.

Outdoor space: A brick patio in back of the main house has space for a table and chairs. The back garden, like the front yard, is planted with low hedges and rose bushes, and low stone walls create a path to a second small patio with a bench.

Taxes: $34,826 (estimated)

Contact: Tim Allen, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 831-214-1990; timallenproperties.com

For weekly email updates on residential real estate news, sign up here. Follow us on Twitter: @nytrealestate.

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$3.2 Million Homes in California - The New York Times

In 2029, the Patio Door market is spectated to surpass ~US$ xx Mn/Bn with a CAGR of xx% over the forecast period. The Patio Door market clicked a value of ~US$ xx Mn/Bn in 2018. Region is expected to account for a significant market share, where the Patio Door market size is projected to inflate with a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.

In the Patio Door market research study, 2018 is considered as the base year, and 2019-2029 is considered as the forecast period to predict the market size. Important regions emphasized in the report include region 1 (country 1, country2), region 2 (country 1, country2), and region 3 (country 1, country2).

The report on the Patio Door market provides a birds eye view of the current proceeding within the Patio Door market. Further, the report also takes into account the impact of the novel COVID-19 pandemic on the Patio Door market and offers a clear assessment of the projected market fluctuations during the forecast period.

Get Free Sample PDF (including COVID19 Impact Analysis, full TOC, Tables and Figures) of Market Report @ https://www.researchmoz.com/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=2394068&source=atm

Global Patio Door market report on the basis of market players

The report examines each Patio Door market player according to its market share, production footprint, and growth rate. SWOT analysis of the players (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) has been covered in this report. Further, the Patio Door market study depicts the recent launches, agreements, R&D projects, and business strategies of the market players including

In global market, the following companies are covered: Jeld-WenMasoniteASSA ABLOY(Maiman)STEVES DOORSimpson DoorSun MountainTruStile DoorsLynden DoorsSierra DoorsStallionAppalachianUSA Wood DoorWoodgrain DoorsArazzinni

Market Segment by Product TypeSingle DoorsMulti-Doors

Market Segment by ApplicationResidential BuildingCommercial Building

Key Regions split in this report: breakdown data for each region.United StatesChinaEuropean UnionRest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)

The study objectives are:To analyze and research the Patio Door status and future forecast in United States, European Union and China, involving sales, value (revenue), growth rate (CAGR), market share, historical and forecast.To present the key Patio Door manufacturers, presenting the sales, revenue, market share, and recent development for key players.To split the breakdown data by regions, type, companies and applications To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks.To identify significant trends, drivers, influence factors in global and regionsTo analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market

In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Patio Door are as follows:History Year: 2014-2018Base Year: 2018Estimated Year: 2019Forecast Year 2019 to 2025

Do You Have Any Query Or Specific Requirement? Ask to Our Industry [emailprotected] https://www.researchmoz.com/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=2394068&source=atm

The Patio Door market report answers the following queries:

The Patio Door market report provides the below-mentioned information:

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Research Methodology of Patio Door Market Report

The global Patio Door market study covers the estimation size of the market both in terms of value (Mn/Bn USD) and volume (x units). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to calculate and authenticate the market size of the Patio Door market, and predict the scenario of various sub-markets in the overall market. Primary and secondary research has been thoroughly performed to analyze the prominent players and their market share in the Patio Door market. Further, all the numbers, segmentation, and shares have been gathered using authentic primary and secondary sources.

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Potential impact of coronavirus outbreak on Patio Door Market 2020: Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Forecast by 2029 - Medic...

Fantastic penthouse w/ stunning view of Shaw Park & the Clayton skyline! 3783 sq ft, 4 bedroom suites, 4 baths, dining room, family room, living room, media room, study, laundry room, service entry & hall w/ access to kitchen, elevator opens to penthouse foyer from garage & secure main lobby, 3 garage spaces, & storage unit. 10' ceilings, 8' doors, extensive molding, casework, crown molding, & recessed speakers & lights throughout, 4 terraces, 5 fireplaces located in family room, master suite, living room, study, & terrace. Center island kitchen w/ granite, custom cabinetry maximizes storage, Bosch dishwasher, instant hot/cold water dispenser, Subzero refrigerator & freezer drawers, Wolf 4 burner gas stove w/ griddle, Wolf wall oven, & Subzero side by side. Master suite w/ 10' tray ceiling, wet bar w/ refrigeration, private terrace. Master bath w/ heated marble floors, spa tub for 2, multi-head steam shower, adjoins dressing room w/ center island shelving & custom built-in organizers.

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Big Homes Just Listed in the St. Louis Area - Mason City Globe Gazette

At a fire resiliency webinar put on by the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, Cyndi Foreman, fire prevention officer for Sonoma County Fire District, gave a presentation about preparing your home for fire season and also how to prepare for and properly execute an evacuation.

(Were going to talk) about what to get ready, defensible space, and well talk about home hardening, which is a really important factor for survivability, Foreman said as she started her presentation. The other thing well touch on is what you can do when you know that fire is coming and things to do to prepare.

Its also really important that families have a plan, she continued. We train every day, so we can fall back on muscle memory and training. But if you dont have that, panic can overtake you, and you make bad decisions. Having a plan and practicing a plan is so important. Kids train to move out when a fire alarm goes off at school, and it becomes muscle memory for them. Its important to teach them this as well, and it can take the fear out and really empower children.

Defensible space

Creating good defensible space can make the difference between you home surviving and losing it. It is based on zones, and what is allowed within each zone.

Zone 1 extends 20 feet from buildings, structures and decks. In zone 1, you should remove all dead plants, grass and weeds (including under your deck), as well as dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof and rain gutters. If you have trees around your home, remove any branches that hang over your roof, and keep any dead branches at least 10 feet from your chimney. Trees should also be trimmed to keep a distance of 10 feet between them. Flammable plants and shrubs near windows should be removed or pruned, and there should be a five-foot exclusion zone from any combustible construction. Wood piles should be relocated into zone 2, and there should be a separation between trees and shrubs and items such as patio furniture, swing sets, etc.

Zone 2 extends 100 feet out from all structures. In zone 2, all grass should be mown to a maximum height of 4 inches, and creating both horizontal and vertical space between shrubs, trees and grass. Fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones and small branches should be removed if possible, if not they should be at a depth no greater than 3 inches.

Home hardening

The roof should be considered the most vulnerable part of your home, and wood or shingle roofs are the most at risk. Composition, metal or tile will provide better protection. It is also important to block any spaces between the roof decking and the covering to prevent embers from catching.

Vents can be sources where flying embers can enter your home. Foreman recommends covering your vents with 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch metal mesh, and putting baffles under eaves or cornices and soffits.

Windows can be fractured by the heat from a wildfire, long before the home is on fire. Single paned and large windows are particularly vulnerable, and cracked or broken windows allow burning embers inside your home. Installing dual-paned windows and limiting the size and number of windows that face or are surrounded by large areas of vegetation can help prevent catastrophic results.

For walls, decks and fences that are part of or connect to a structure, using ignition-resistant or non-combustible building materials such as stucco, fiber cement or treated wood can significantly increase the chances of saving the home.

A final and extremely important thing to consider is your driveway. Ensure that all gates open inward and are wide enough to accommodate emergency equipment and fire apparatus. This include trimming trees and shrubs. In addition, make sure your address is clearly visible from the road and at night.

Driveways, if they dont have at least a 10-foot clearance, are a hazard for you and a hazard for us, Foreman said. If you are trying to evacuate with fire bearing down, it is your way out. If there are low hanging branches, and we have to jump out and cut them to get into your property thats valuable time, not just in a fire but even in a medical emergency. And if we dont think we can be safe, well move on.

Foreman also said in relation to clear addresses, SCFD will provide reflective number signs to district residents.

We make the signs and send them out; Graton does it too, Foreman said. I know your decorative ones are nice, but they do not help us find you in smoky and dark conditions.

A list of 10 low-cost ways to harden your home can be found at http://www.readyforwildfire.org/wp-content/uploads/Low-cost-Retrofit-List-Final.pdf.

Things to do before you evacuate

Foreman presented two checklists for things that will assist firefighters and also help protect your home. However, she emphasized these checklists should only be utilized if you have enough time once the evacuation has been called.

If you have time to prep your home before evacuation, do it, Foreman said. Get your go bags, put them in the driveway and close the doors, leave hoses and ladders out if you have them. Seal up the attic and crawl space vents. Patrol the property if you have time, dont wait for the order if you feel threatened get out. Early on locate your pets and put them in their carrier. Keep your cats inside during Red Flag warnings, a lot of people learned a lot of hard lessons about that. As you prepare to evacuate, take your car keys and put them in pocket. So many people couldnt find them when in panic mode.

Home Evacuation Checklist (Inside)

Home Evacuation Checklist (Outside)

Doormats? Chuck them over the hill to get them out of the way, Foreman said. Do not turn on your sprinklers, you will be robbing your community of valuable firefighting water when you do that. In 2017, many places ran out of water, so please dont leave them running. I know it sounds crazy to leave doors unlocked, but it gives firefighters the ability to get inside. Trash cans are also a big one, dont leave them up against the house.

Go Bag preparations

If you live in Sonoma County, you should have a Go Bag. Have your essentials because when we panic dont do things like we should, Foreman said. Take this list and put it on your fridge, because you wont remember when things go crazy. The Go Bag should be for everybody, including kids and pets. And make sure you have a carrier for every pet, in case you are going into a shelter.

Your Go Bag should include:

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Fire season is coming here's how to be ready - Sonoma West