The Ambrigio L400 Elite caught our attention here at MackLand, LLC.
The Italians aren’t only famous for their sports cars, motorcycles, clothing, food etc. They have also used their flair for design and attention to detail in the field of robotic mowers.
In our previous robotic lawn mower articles we discussed what features to look for when choosing one and more specifically about the Italian made Ambrogio range of robotic mowers. The Ambrogio L400 Elite now takes things to a whole new level.
We provide many services including landscape architecture, irrigation etc. but most often our swimming pool removal services are the catalyst for implementing many of these robotic lawn mowers. Customers have their swimming pools removed for a variety of reasons and then need to make a decision what to do with the resulting space. Besides garden trains, car lifts and other interesting uses of the space the most common request after a pool removal job we are asked to do is to turn the resulting space into a luscious lawn. These clients need to start thinking about how to maintain this new expanse of lawn. Enter the Ambrogio L400 Elite.
While lesser models need to make use of a perimeter wire to ensure that the mower does not head off to the neighbors, the Ambrogio L400 Elite makes use of very accurate differential GPS technology allowing the robot to cover large areas without the need for a perimeter wire. These advanced cutting and navigation systems guarantee inch level cutting precision, memorizing and avoiding the areas that have already been mowed.
A map can be defined at the time of installation that allows the robot to mow in straight lines, reducing the mowing time to the minimum possible.
All of these features making the Ambrogio L400 Elite the world’s only robotic lawnmower that can covers areas up to 7.5 acres.
With such great features and huge coverage ability, the care and maintenance of very large areas, such as airfields, golf courses, football fields and parks becomes easy with the Ambrogio L400 Elite.
Read more about this clever robotic mower here and if you live in the greater Chicago or Denver areas talk to us about including an estimate for the implementation of an Ambrogio L400 Elite when we supply you with our estimate for other work.
Just when you thought you have seen it all, along comes the car lift.
Having your swimming pool removed is one big decision, deciding what to do with the resulting space is another. We have previously spoken about how we have put that space to good use. These projects included smart irrigation, xeriscaping and robotic mowers. Just imagine if budget was no object and you asked us to convert that hole in the ground into a car lift. Well, imagine no further. Take a look here at this clever technology developed in Europe.
What is a car lift?
Car lifts are alternative solutions to the conventional access ramp of a garage.
A car lift is installed where, for space reasons, a ramp can not be built or to maximize the space that would be lost by creating a ramp. This results in a greater number of parking spaces.
Choosing a car lift may also be for aesthetic reasons. The lift becomes an alternative solution to the ramp that combines functionality and aesthetics while keeping and dedicating all the outdoor space to gardens or courtyards. The result is an invisible car lift, with a covering roof resembling the rest of the garden/courtyard.
What about safety?
Safety regulations require that the user, when on the platform, holds down the button for the entire duration of the lift’s journey if the compartment is not completely enclosed, i.e. without cabin doors. Lifting platforms for people also fall under the same regulation and are operated with a dead-switch mode when they have no cabin doors.
From the outside of the platform, the car lift movement can be automatic, by pressing a button.
For platforms with railings (or positioned in fully enclosed compartments) it is possible to call the lift from outside by pressing the button from the floor panel or by using a remote control.
The car lift system has perimeter photocells to prevent the risk of crushing anything in its path.
Other safety photocells are installed on board the platform to prevent the risk of shearing and to signal the correct positioning of the car.
A series of safety measures are also present such as a surface camera, color display and on-board LCD touch-screen that allow to control the system area during all stages of movement.
What happens if there is a power failure?
In the event of a power failure the included uninterruptible power supply will kick in allowing the lift to descend and the doors to open even in the absence of electricity.
Systems with people on board are also equipped with an acoustic alarm and telephone (like with conventional elevators for people). The telephone allows the user to contact the operations center to alert technicians who will be able to identify the system from the telephone number.
It is also possible to install a generator which would also supply the required power to keep the lift operational in the event of a power failure.
How does the car lift handle low temperatures?
The hydraulic control unit of the car lift is equipped with a heating probe to keep the system oil warm avoiding the risk of freezing.
In countries with frequent snowfall, it is advisable to install heating pads similar to those used in heated driveways under the roof paving to prevent snow from accumulating.
It is also possible to use special oils suitable for particularly low temperatures. In addition, by setting the automatic return to the ground floor, the amount of oil present in the pipes is reduced, so that the heating probe is more effective.
What about rain?
Rain is prevented from flooding the underground structure by making use of gutters than run around the perimeter of the covering roof.
In the four corners of the roof there are guttering has drains to channel water into the sewer system.
In the bottom of the pit, however, there must be a well with a safety electric pump as backup.
Is it possible to use the space above the lift to park another car?
It is possible to use the roof of the system for both parking and for the transit of another car. The car lift standard roof can support up to 5500 lbs.
For safety reasons, it is not possible to lift the second parked car while parked on the roof.
What materials can be used to cover the roof?
It is possible to pave the roof in any material to contribute to making it totally invisible and obtaining a prestigious finish. The car lift roof can be covered to blend in with the surrounding landscape architecture.
The materials most often used are grass, marble, teak and stone.
So once escrow has closed on that mansion of your dreams and you’re trying to work out where to park your weekend sports car, consider installing a car lift to keep that beauty protected and secure while still being able to enjoy your uncluttered garden.
In our previous article titled ROBOTIC MOWER – WHICH ONE FOR MY LAWN? we spoke about the features of robotic mowers in general, here we focus more on the Ambrogio Robot series and how they not only meet but exceed these features.
The current Ambrogio Robot series is split into 3 major groups the GREEN Line, the PRO Line and the recently announced NEXT Line.
Ambrogio Robot GREEN Line
THINK SAFE & GREEN
The Ambrogio Robot GREEN Line was designed to allow you to benefit from all the advantages offered by Ambrogio’s simple and innovative technology. The four models ensure excellent cut and nutrition of the turf, resulting in a greener, lusher, healthier lawn in a completely eco-friendly way.
SIMPLE & ECO-FRIENDLY
Respects the environment, very quiet. The set-up menus are simple and intuitive.
SMALL, COMPACT & SAFE
Designed for small to medium sized properties, it moves with extreme agility and is completely safe.
Ambrogio Robot PRO Line
The Ambrogio Robot PRO Line series of lawnmowers is designed for those who want a professional and excellent product. The ten Pro Line models all have brushless motors, powerful lithium-ion batteries and advanced cutting systems to meet the needs of homeowners who want to keep their lawn in pristine condition, all year round.
AUTONOMOUS &EFFICIENT
Ambrogio does not need to work continuously during the day and night when used on average-sized properties. Powerful batteries and careful programming allow Ambrogio to stay in the recharging base all night and part of the day (or vice versa, according to the needs of the owner).
HIGH PERFORMANCE & MAXIMUM PRECISION
Ambrogio easily handles the most difficult slopes, up to 29° for the L85 Elite model. The stainless steel blades ensure precise cutting on any type of grassy surface.
SMART & USER-FRIENDLY
Ambrogio’s rain sensor signals the robot to return to the charging station in case of rain. Ambrogio’s flexible programming options are easy to set-up.
Proline “i”
As an upgrade to the PRO Line there are also the Ambrogio Robot i series elite models. They add the following extra features.
LATEST GENERATION MOTHERBOARD
The processors are faster and can process more data at higher rates, with less power consumption.
ZCS CONNECT *
This new ZCS-labeled device allows you to connect and interact with the robot anytime and anywhere (with your own smartphone or tablet). By using the Remote Ambrogio App, it is possible to setup the robot time-profiles, verify its location (geolocalization), isolate and/or work in specific areas of the yard (Go Away), monitor the status of the robot and receive alerts if it is removed from the yard (Geo fence alarm, an evolved anti-theft system). Thanks to the Go Home and Work Now functions, it is possible to force the robot to return to the recharging station or to work in the yard.
* Free traffic data for two years. Renewable on expiration.
TOUCH DISPLAY
The interactive and intuitive touch display allows interacting with the graphic interface of the operating system by simply touching the screen with your fingers, without having to use
physical keys.
GSM & BLUETOOTH
The communication technology that allows updating the software and driving the robot in close proximity.
The Ambrogio Robot NEXT Line
This newly released 4.0 range takes the Ambrosio Robot features even a step further.
4.0 Basic
The 4.0 Basic model is ideal for those who want a simple and reliable robot that adapts to changes. Its flexible, yet solid and secure structure enables the installation of three different types of Power Units, which allows it to convert from a robot small- to medium sized yards (with Power Unit Light up to 1/5 acre or with Power Unit Medium up to 1/3 acre to a solution that covers up to ½ acre (with PowerUnit Premium) with extreme precision. The brushless motors, rubber wheels and soft bumper complete the profile of an innovative robot that meets the most varied needs. Equipped with Bluetooth receiver, it can be controlled independently by a dedicated App. The new design also allows greater autonomy: the body designed around the blade provides quick and safe self-cleaning. The Basic 4.0 is the only customisable robotic lawnmower that changes with your yard!
4.0 Elite
The Elite model combines the features of flexibility and modularity with 4.0 technological innovation.
It comes with a ZCS Connect device that allows the safe connection of the robot anytime and anywhere, by means of GPS, Bluetooth and GSM technology.
With a simple touch, the robot can be stopped and started and areas can be excluded. The Geofence Alarm allows the system to alert the user when the robot is taken from the yard. In this way, you will always be informed on the movements of your Ambrogio 4.0., with its evolved anti-theft system.
It can be combined with the Medium, Premium and ExtraPremium Power Units going from ½ acre up to 3/4 acre coverage.
The Extra Premium kit permits equipping the robot with the inductive recharge. Ambrogio only has to touch the station, which is now smaller and less bulky, to recharge itself.
Inductive recharge avoids regular cleaning of the contacts. The adjustment of the blade height, now motorized, is also easy to operate, thus facilitating the use of your robot.
ZCS technology is more user-friendly and interactive for easier maintenance of your lawn in a completely autonomous manner. Always, anywhere, anytime… super smart Ambrogio!
Ambrogio Next Line
What is ZSC?
With the ZCS CONNECT MODULE* the future is here and now!
The new ZCS labeled devices allows connection and interaction with the robot anytime and anywhere (with your own smartphone or tablet). By using the Remote App Ambrogio, it is possible to set-up the robot time-profiles, verify its location (geo-localization), isolate and/or work on specific areas of the yard (Go Away), monitor the status of the robot and receive alerts if it is taken out of the yard (Geofence alarm, an evolved anti-theft system). Thanks to the Go Home and Work Now functions, it is possible to force the robot to return to the recharging station and to work in the yard.
These Ambrosio Robot Robotic lawn mowers are the latest in unattended mowing solutions. Compare the different models here.
Having your pool removed and the resulting space professionally landscaped could leave you with a wonderful stretch of lawn. With these great products from Ambrogio there’s no need to worry about how to keep it looking trim and neat.
Contact us and we will facilitate installation as part of our landscape architecture services in both the Denver and greater Chicago areas.
Garden trains? What has this got to do with landscaping? Read further.
That pool in the yard has been an eyesore for many years and you have eventually decided to have it professionally removed. The question is what to do with all of that newly generated real estate and how to keep the kids entertained. As members of the American Society of Landscape Architects many of our customers contract us to stay on site to design their landscapes after the pool removal is complete.
Specifying a design possible of incorporating garden trains is something that we have been asked to do in the past.
We are able to provide the landscaping and retaining walls and design and plan out the layout. In other instances we can work with someone who already has a plan in mind. In an existing garden we could build the natural stone retaining walls and excavate and provide power. Some hobbyists may want to handle some of the finer details, others would want us to provide a complete turnkey package.
When considering garden trains the kinds of aspects that we would need to take into consideration include the following:
Consider How Much Yard You Want To Leave in Lawn
Consider where your focus Points Should Be
Know Your Trees and Know Your Shade
Consider the Yard’s Slope
Consider Privacy
Consider Water Runoff
Decide HOW Your Focus Points Should Interrelate
Balance Your Features
Provide Vertical Interest
Plan Access to Features
Plan Routes Among Features
Use Lines to Draw Attention
Vary Textures to Draw Attention
Now that we have your interest piqued, where does one start with garden trains?
One of the most important aspects is the type of rail and track. This is one area where you must not skimp as this must last a long time under varying weather conditions.
Rail is usually made from either Brass; Aluminium; Stainless Steel or Nickel Silver. All these metals have their advantages and disadvantages but overall brass seems to have the edge. All of these can be mixed on your layout apart from aluminium which can apparently react adversely to other metals.
By far the most common sectional track is made from heavy solid brass rail mounted on injection molded imitation wood-textured sleeper strips usually made from UPVC plastic with UV protection against the effects of the sun’s rays. Even longer lengths of flexible track trend to use multiple short sections of webbed sleepers.
Then there is decision about locomotives, rolling stock, figures, power etc. etc.
Bottom line? If you reside in the greater Chicago or Denver areas, already have your own garden train design or need a turnkey job done all you need to do is contact us and we’ll get right back to you.
In our previous article we spoke specifically about the Rachio Smart Irrigation system and what features a good smart controller needs to have. In this article we talk about smart irrigation in general.
Smart Irrigation Systems – Saving water
Smart sprinklers and irrigation controllers can simplify home lawn and garden care, and reduce water consumption.
Instead of fixed timers, these systems draw on data from sensors, weather forecasts and plant-care databases to determine watering needs. They deliver just enough moisture at just the right time. Lower your water bill, and check up on your plants from anywhere in the world using mobile and web apps.
EPA standards
According to the EPA, in the United States, outdoor water use alone averages more than 9 billion gallons of water each day, mainly for landscape irrigation. As much as 50% of this water is wasted due to over watering caused by inefficiencies in traditional irrigation methods and systems. Smart irrigation control technologies can significantly reduce over watering by applying water only when plants need it.
Not all controllers are made equal so the EPA came up with the WaterSense stamp of approval. WaterSense labeled controllers allow watering schedules to better match plants’ water needs. With proper installation, programming, and maintenance, homeowners and businesses can use WaterSense labeled controllers instead of standard clock-timer controllers on their existing systems, and no longer worry about wasted water.
To earn the WaterSense label, landscape irrigation controllers must be able to adequately meet the watering needs of a landscape without over watering. As with all other WaterSense labeled products. WaterSense labeled controllers will be independently certified to ensure that they meet the criteria for efficiency and performance.
Replacing a standard clock timer with a WaterSense labeled irrigation controller can save an average home nearly 8,800 gallons of water annually. If every home in the United States with an automatic irrigation system installed and properly operated a WaterSense labeled irrigation controller, we could save $435 million in water costs and 120 billion gallons of water across the
country annually from not over watering lawns and landscapes. That’s equal to the annual household water needs of nearly 1.3 million average American homes.
The Benefits
If you’re a typical property owner, you probably put your automatic sprinkler system into the same category as your heating and cooling system. You expect it to work reliably and efficiently with minimum fuss. Smart irrigation controllers saves water, saves time, adds convenience.
There are two major types of smart irrigation controllers: weather-based and on-site soil moisture sensors. The right solution depends on your geographic location and landscape environment. Not wanting to baffle you with too much detail here. We suggest that you contact us to discuss the various options for your site.
We have installed smart irrigation systems in Denver and in the greater Chicago areas where we have our teams located.
Let us conduct an irrigation audit for you to help determine the best smart irrigation solution for your property.
Xeriscaping is known as the art of conserving water through creative landscaping.
The concept was coined and trademarked by Denver Water, the city of Denver’s water department, during a difficult drought period in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Since then Xeriscaping has become more mainstream even in areas where this is no drought but where people would like to conserve water for many other reasons.
Yards that embrace xeriscape ideas actually feature all manner of plants and garden styles, including cottage gardens. The term simply refers to a landscape that minimizes water use.
For a Xeriscape exercise to be successful the following steps need to be considered.
Thorough planning and design of the overall area
Improving the soil with organic matter to hold more moisture
Practical turf management. Turf grasses have a place in xeriscapes for recreational space, for pets, or just for their aesthetic appeal. However, because turf grass uses more water and maintenance than any other part of the xeriscape, it is recommended only for limited areas that serve a specific purpose. Lawns created primarily for appearance could be replaced by attractive alternatives, which also reduce erosion, prevent the sun’s glare, and cool the local environment.
Appropriate plant selection is key. As you research xeriscaping plants, always select ones that are winter hardy in your zone. Many of these water-wise plants demand well-drained soil. Take time to amend soil in planting beds with compost or grit, which includes things like gravel, pulverized granite, terra-cotta pot pieces or builder’s sand.
Efficient irrigation practices, such as “smart systems” like those from Rachio that recognize moisture content or drip systems which lessen evaporation.
The use of mulches, both organic (compost, wood chips, bark, etc.) or others such as gravels, cobbles or decomposed granite.
And finally, on-going maintenance of the garden to ensure long term health and appearance.
As members of the American Society of Landscape Architects we have years of experience and are eminently qualified to assist you in your xeriscaping pursuits. We are able to tackle xeriscaping in Chicago and xeriscaping in Denver with teams in both of these areas and surrounds.
The compact excavator or mini excavator has many advantages with very few disadvantages. You will notice that we use the compact excavator for a great deal of the services we offer.
Here are some of the many projects that we tackle where the compact excavator is used.
A compact excavator is a large piece of equipment, driven by a qualified worker, that can be used for either digging or demolition. Because these excavators are smaller than other types of similar equipment, they are generally used for small to medium-sized projects. These machines may not have the digging depth of their full-sized counterparts, but they bring superior capabilities to smaller digging operations in close quarters.
One of the biggest benefits of using a mini excavator is that it brings a lot of power to a small space. Even projects that don’t provide much room for large equipment, a mini excavator may be able to handle with ease. They have a small foot print but are very powerful and can manage even tough tasks.
There are two basic types of attachments that can be used with a compact excavator, those used for digging and those used for demolition. The type of attachment we use will depend on the project we are working on and some projects may require us to use a few different kinds of attachments.
Compact Excavator Advantages
More versatility. – Different attachments to accomplish a variety of tasks using one machine. For example, you could drill a hole with an auger, demolish concrete with a breaker or move concrete debris using a thumb. Better maneuverability. – Features such as 360-degree turning, offset digging and reduced tail swing allow rented compact excavators to work productively in spaces where a full-sized excavator could not move. Lower fuel expenses. – A compact excavator uses less fuel than larger excavating equipment does. You also can tow a compact excavator using smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Lighter footprint. – A rubber-tracked compact excavator can move over pavement without harming it. A compact excavator’s low ground pressure also minimizes damage to turf. Less noise. – Compact excavators generate less noise than larger excavators, especially when moving across pavement or other hard surfaces.
Completing projects safely and efficiently is our number one priority. With good leadership and communication and using the best equipment for the job, you’ll end up with a great outcome every time. If you’re in the greater Denver or Chicago areas please contact us to discuss your compact excavator requirements.
At the bottom of our website you will notice the ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects) logo of which we are a member.
What’s the significance of this and why should you hire a landscape architect who falls under this umbrella organization?
The Society’s mission is to advance landscape architecture through advocacy, communication, education, and fellowship. Sustainability has been part of ASLA’s mission since its founding and is an overarching value that informs all of the Society’s programs and operations. ASLA has been a leader in demonstrating the benefits of green infrastructure and resilient development practices through the creation of its own green roof, co-development of the SITES® Rating System, and the creation of publicly-accessible sustainable design resources.
Residential Design
REASONS TO HIRE A LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
ASLA 2014 Honor Award, Residential Category, Vineyard Retreat, Scott Lewis Landscape Architecture/ image: Matthew Millman Photography
1. Landscape architects will increase the value of your home.Hiring a landscape architect is one of the best investments for your home, adding as much as 15 percent to its value over comparable houses. A landscape architect is well equipped to design an outdoor living space that will not only add value, but also extend your living space while allowing you to enjoy all that nature has to offer. Arbors, installed seating, fountains, fire pits/fireplaces, patios, and even outdoor kitchens can create a space that is both inviting and environmentally sustainable. And research from Virginia Tech shows that landscapes literally grow in value over time, while traditional home additions or remodels start to lose value the minute the dust settles. ASLA 2014 Honor Award, Residential Category, Hill Country Prospect, Studio Outside Landscape Architects / image: Arlen Kennedy Photography and Robert Reck Photography
2. Landscape architects have a plan. A big advantage of hiring landscape architects is that they’re trained to think about landscapes as systems. They will assess your property’s problem areas as well as possibilities and create a solid plan that addresses both the big picture and exact details of how your landscape will look. They will also help you select the perfect materials, styles, textures, and colors for your landscape project. A landscape architect will handle all the details, saving you time and stress.2014 ASLA Honor Award, Residential Category, City House in a Garden, McKay Landscape Architects / image: McKay Landscape Architects
3. Landscape architects design low-maintenance gardens featuring beautiful native plants. For those who are looking for low-maintenance gardens, native plants are the way to go—and a landscape architect will incorporate them into your landscape design. Native plants reduce water costs and often reduce chemical applications, and insects like bumble bees and butterflies flourish among them. One trend that relies on native plants is called xeriscaping, which reduces the need for supplemental watering or irrigation. 2015 ASLA Honor Award, Residential Category, West Texas Ranch, Ten Eyck Landscape Architects, Inc. / image: Terry Moore, Christine Ten Eyck, Trish Bigler
4. Landscape architects know where to place trees to lower energy bills. The proper placement of trees and large shrubs can actually lower energy bills by reducing heating and cooling costs, and a knowledgeable landscape architect knows exactly where they should be placed. 2014 ASLA Honor Award, Residential Category, City House in a Garden, McKay Landscape Architects / image: Linda Oyama Bryan
5. Landscape architects incorporate permeable paving. Permeable paving can offer solutions for driveway flooding or just add beauty to patios and sidewalks, while reducing runoff and encouraging groundwater recharge. A landscape architect will integrate permeable paving into your home landscape.
ASLA 2014 Honor Award, Residential Category, Vineyard Retreat, Scott Lewis Landscape Architecture / image: Matthew Millman Photography
6. Landscape architects design beautiful rain gardens. A landscape architect will create a properly-placed rain garden for backyards that might experience seasonal flooding. Rain gardens also create a habitat for birds and beneficial insects. These gardens help to filter rainwater runoff away from sidewalks and lawns and allow the water to infiltrate back into the ground. They are more attractive than a storm drain or French drain.
ASLA 2014 Award of Excellence, Residential Category, Woodland Rain Gardens, Jeffrey Carbo Landscape Architects / image: Rebecca A. O’Neal and Jeffrey Carbo Landscape Architects
7. Landscape architects design natural swimming pools. Unlike the aquamarine-colored pools of the past, a natural pool looks and sometimes acts like a natural pond, but also offers all the benefits of a chlorinated pool with less maintenance and harsh chemicals. A landscape architect will work with you to create a beautiful, all-natural backyard pool. ASLA 2010 Honor Award, Residential Category, Bridle Road Residence, Rees Roberts & Partners / image: Scott Frances
8. Landscape architects can devise the perfect drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation systems water plants right at the root and serve as an efficient alternative to sprinkler systems. But an incorrectly-installed irrigation system can not only cost extra dollars on a monthly water bill, but it can also kill all of the new plants it’s meant to be helping. Over-watering is a huge problem in many residential landscapes and one that can be easily avoided by hiring a landscape. Be sure to get a timer for maximum effectiveness.
9. Landscape architects offer expertise from start to finish. Landscape architects will remain involved with the construction and follow through. What the homeowner may consider a long weekend project might actually take weeks.
10. Landscape architects will design a landscape you will love. Landscape architects will deliver a finished project that you will love but also comply with regulations and codes. It will be a special place that you and your family and friends will enjoy for years to come. ASLA 2014 Honor Award, Residential Category, Vineyard Retreat, Scott Lewis Landscape Architecture / image: Matthew Millman Photography
Just because winter is just around the corner doesn’t mean your backyard must lie dormant until spring. Here are some tips to follow that will help make your winter backyard a little more appealing during those cooler months.
Heat your pool
If you have a pool, winterizing this part of your backyard is probably one of your first priorities at the end of summer. What if we told you you didn’t have to drain and cover your pool at all this winter? There are a number of innovative solar powered technologies to choose from. Ask us and we will point you in the right direction depending on your needs.
Cover furniture and water features
If you live in an area that suffers from harsh winters then it would be worthwhile to protect your various outdoor items that could get damaged by the freezing temperatures and snow.
For items like fountains or grills, heavy duty vinyl covers should keep them safe and dry all winter. For outdoor furniture, look for covers made from water-resistant material to prevent any damage to fabric.
For any outdoor space in the winter to be appealing, it needs to be heated. If you don’t keep it warm then you’re going to prefer to rather stay indoors. Wood burning or gas fire pits always make a great option here, as they can double as both a heating device and a great patio centerpiece.
For the smaller outdoor space, try something like an electric patio heater, which is both powerful and compact, providing plenty of heat without needing a lot of room.
Landscape Lighting
With fewer daylight hours during winter, outdoor lighting becomes even more important in your winter backyard plan. When you have a great landscape lighting plan in place it would encourage you to spend more time outside. Different areas call for different types of lighting, just like inside the home. For romantic lighting over a table for two, choose low wattage bulbs, but for a well-lit area for the kids to play, go with brighter LED bulbs that will incidentally use up 75 percent less energy than incandescent light bulbs.
Line walkways and patios with staggered path lights, adding in some ambient lighting within the beds for depth. Accentuate architectural details you want to highlight with strategically placed light fixtures.
Heat your driveway/patio
Staying safe and slip-free is the number one reason to install a heated driveway or patio snow melting system. The main reason people do this is for safety. Many driveways are impossibly steep and homeowners are afraid of the fall hazard presented by ice build-up on drives and walks. So, making these areas more appealing and spend more time out there.
Move your plants indoors
If you have plants that can be easily transplanted, try moving them indoors before you get your first freeze. For outdoor planters too big to bring inside, wrap them with a heavily insulated material, like burlap, to keep the soil warmer and prevent damage to the planter itself. To reduce the shock of moving from outdoors to indoors, now’s the time to bring plants in to overwinter.
Winter storms occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. Winter storms can range from freezing rain and ice, to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures.
Winter storms can cause power outages that last for days. They can make roads and walkways extremely dangerous or impassable and close or limit critical community services such as public transportation, child care, health programs and schools. Injuries and deaths may occur from exposure, dangerous road conditions, and carbon monoxide poisoning and other conditions.
Where
Winter storms and colder than normal temperatures can happen in every region of the country.
When
Winter storms can occur from early autumn to late spring depending on the region.
Before Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
Make an emergency kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
Prepare your home:
Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow – or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.
If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
Extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats
Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace
Vehicle Prepardeness:
Fully winterize your vehicle: Have a mechanic check antifreeze, brakes, heater and defroster, tires, and windshield wipers to ensure they are in good shape. Keep your gas tank at least half full.
Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products.
Sand to improve traction.
Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case power is out for an extended period of time.
Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it in case you lose power.
Fill a gallon container with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold.
A NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts alerts and warnings directly from the NWS for all hazards. You may also sign up in advance to receive notifications from your local emergency services.
During Snowstorms and Extreme Cold
Stay indoors during the storm.
Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule and your route; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.
Walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. Use caution, take breaks, push the snow instead of lifting it when possible, and lift lighter loads.
Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
Wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to reduce heat loss.
Cold Related Illness
Frostbite is a serious condition that’s caused by exposure to extremely cold temperatures.
a white or grayish-yellow skin area
skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
numbness
If you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care.
Hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature, is a dangerous condition that can occur when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposures to very cold temperatures. When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it’s produced. Lengthy exposures will eventually use up your body’s stored energy, which leads to lower body temperature.
Infants: bright red, cold skin, very low energyIf you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95° F, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately.
Carbon Monoxide
Caution: Each year, an average of 430 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, and there are more than 20,000 visits to the emergency room with more than 4,000 hospitalizations. Carbon monoxide-related deaths are highest during colder months. These deaths are likely due to increased use of gas-powered furnaces and alternative heating, cooking, and power sources used inappropriately indoors during power outages.
Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal¬ burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Keep these devices at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents.
The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.
Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.
Stay or Go
STAY:
If stuck on the road to avoid exposure and/or when rescue is likely
If a safe location is neither nearby or visible
If you do not have appropriate clothing to go outside
If you do not have the ability to call for help
GO:
If the distance to call for help is accessible.
If you have visibility and outside conditions are safe.
If you have appropriate clothing.
Once the storm has passed, if you are not already home, follow instructions from your local transportation department and emergency management agency to determine if it is safe to drive and, if so, which route will be safest for you to get home. Drive with extra caution.
After Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
If your home loses power or heat for more than a few hours or if you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home overnight, you may want to go to a designated public shelter if you can get there safely. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (e.g., SHELTER20472)
Bring any personal items that you would need to spend the night (such as toiletries, medicines). Take precautions when traveling to the shelter. Dress warmly in layers, wear boots, mittens, and a hat.
Continue to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.
Winter Weather Watches and Warnings
Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify an extreme winter weather alerts:
Freezing Rain – Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet – Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Wind Chill– Windchill is the temperature it “feels like” when you are outside. The NWS provides a Windchill Chart to show the difference between air temperature and the perceived temperature and the amount of time until frostbite occurs. For more information, visit: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter/windchill.shtml.
Winter Weather Advisory – Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. The NWS issues a winter weather advisory when conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences that may be hazardous. If caution is used, these situations should not be life-threatening.
Winter Storms Watch – A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for more information. The NWS issues a winter storm watch when severe winter conditions, such as heavy snow and/or ice, may affect your area but the location and timing are still uncertain. A winter storm watch is issued 12 to 36 hours in advance of a potential severe storm. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, local radio, TV, or other news sources for more information. Monitor alerts, check your emergency supplies, and gather any items you may need if you lose power.
Winter Storms Warning – A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Blizzard Warning – Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Frost/Freeze Warning – Below freezing temperatures are expected.
