National Window Safety Week Reminders!

March 1, 2024 by

The National Safety Council’s Window Safety Task Force marks National Window Safety Week annually during the first full week of April. This year the event will be held April 1-7, 2024. The objectives of this week are to educate families on the vital role windows play in fire escapes and other emergencies, as well as to prevent accidental window falls. Your family’s safety is paramount to Sentry Window Guards! We hope you and your family will take some time to review this window safety checklist to ensure year-round protection.

Preventing Window Falls

  1. Never leave young children unsupervised near open windows.
  2. Keep windows closed and locked when not in use.
  3. Position children’s play areas away from windows.
  4. Avoid placing furniture near windows to deter children from climbing.
  5. Do not rely solely on insect screens to prevent falls, as they cannot support a child’s weight.
  6. Whenever possible, open windows from the top rather than the bottom.
  7. Properly installed window guards are essential for preventing window falls. Consider installing window stops to enjoy fresh air while ensuring safety.

Creating Emergency Escape Routes

  1. Develop and practice an emergency escape plan with your family at least twice a year, once during daylight and once at night.
  2. Identify at least two escape routes from every room.
  3. Ensure that at least one window in each bedroom meets escape and rescue standards.
  4. Teach older children how to safely open windows in emergency situations.
  5. Verify that windows are not nailed or painted shut.
  6. Remove air conditioners from windows that may be needed for escape.
  7. Install emergency escape ladders in upper-story windows where necessary and educate all family members on their use.
  8. Designate a safe meeting point outside your home.

At Sentry Window Guards, we believe that window safety goes beyond just preventing falls and aiding in emergency escapes; it also plays a crucial role in enhancing home security and energy efficiency. Making sure that your windows are properly secured with locks and alarms, homeowners can deter burglars and intruders, providing peace of mind for their families. Additionally, investing in energy-efficient windows helps to regulate indoor temperatures, reduce utility bills, and minimize environmental impact. By sealing gaps, upgrading to double or triple-pane windows, and installing insulated frames, homeowners can create a more comfortable and sustainable living environment while prioritizing safety.

Additionally, staying up to date about advancements in window safety technology can empower homeowners to make the best decisions about protecting their homes and loved ones. From smart window sensors that detect unusual activity to shatter-resistant glass that withstands extreme weather conditions, there are various innovative solutions available on the market.

If you have questions about your New York home, please feel free to give us a call so that we may tailor effective solutions for your specific needs and preferences.

At Sentry Window Guards, our mission is to protect children by preventing window fall accidents. Here’s a testimonial from a satisfied customer:

“Great service! As a new landlord, window guards was not an area I had any experience in but the team at Sentry Windows made it easy for me to make the right choices for my windows. They’re also a nice size that fit in the back track of your window seamlessly, opposed to the bulky guards from the hardware store. Thank you!”
-Tameka Edwards

“Really happy with my recently purchased window guards. The associates there were also nice enough to be flexible with me and my work schedule to allow me to pick up after their regular work hours.”
-Ibrahime Balde

For further information on our window guard products and our expertise in complying with NYC safety regulations, contact us today.

 

Filed Under: Child Safety, Safety Tips Tagged With: , ,

Lead Paint Awareness: Keeping Your Home Safe in the Big Apple

February 15, 2024 by

Hey, just a heads up about the not-so-cool side of lead paint on window sills in New York. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, lead poisoning is a big deal, especially for kiddos – it’s actually the top environmental threat to their health.

What the Stats Say!

The stats say that around 4.4% of kids aged 1-5 have lead levels in their blood that go beyond what’s considered safe. Yikes! Most of these kids get exposed at home, and if you’re renting, controlling that exposure is a bit trickier. A lot of NYC apartments are on the older side. Even though they banned lead-based paint in 1960, those older buildings might still have layers of it.

A Little Bit of History and Some Tips!

Lead paint was the go-to for kitchen and bathroom walls, as well as doors, windows, and wooden trim. But here’s the thing – unless you’ve had your place tested, you won’t know if that old paint has lead in it. So, before moving in, ask your landlord if they’ve ever tested for lead. Consider bringing it up during the walk-through or rental application process. If they have, ask to see the results. Just a heads up, though, in New York State, landlords aren’t required to test for lead or let you do it before you move in.

If you’re wondering about lead paint poisoning symptoms, it usually happens when kids put stuff with lead in their mouths – like chewing on a window sill. The symptoms vary but can include abdominal pain, irritability, fatigue, and a bunch of other not-so-fun things.

DIY Lead-Safe Measures: Your Home, Your Rules!

If you’re a DIY enthusiast or just want to take extra precautions, there are simple steps you can take to make your space lead-safe. Regularly clean surfaces, especially those within reach of curious little hands, using lead-specific cleaning products. Additionally, consider applying a fresh layer of lead-free paint to window sills and areas prone to wear and tear. Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to creating a safe and healthy living environment for you and your loved ones in the city that never sleeps!

Oh, and if you’re in NYC and living in a building with three or more apartments, there’s this form you’re supposed to fill out every year by February 15. It’s a city law thing – click the link for more info. Stay safe out there!

» https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/lead-poisoning-parents-and-tenants.page 

For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

Sources:

https://ag.ny.gov/publications/preventing-lead-paint-poisoning

http://www.healthline.com/health/lead-poisoning#Symptoms4

http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/home/home.shtml

 

Filed Under: Safety Tips Tagged With: , ,

Frequently Asked Questions | Sentry Window Guards, New York

January 29, 2024 by

Hey there! Keeping your family safe is our top priority at Sentry Window Guards!

We’ve got all kinds of childproof window locks and safety gadgets to make sure your home is secure. And guess what? Window guards are a must if you’ve got kiddos 10 years or younger – it’s the law!

Balcony window? Yep, you need a window guard there too. It’s a legal thing.

Curious about the height requirement for window guards? It’s 8 feet, but hey, they’re not just for meeting legal standards. They’re also awesome for keeping your place secure from break-ins.

Wondering about screws? Tamper-proof screws are the way to go – they’re homeowner and management company friendly. And guess what? We’ve got 20 cool colors for our window guards, matching any building or window frame.

Oh, and good news – we’re not just about selling guards. We’ll install them for you too! We’re your one-stop shop for all things windows and guards. Our team will troubleshoot, measure, fabricate, supply, and install – all within 24 hours!

Remember, at Sentry Window Guards, we’re all about preventing accidents and keeping kids safe. Check out the National Safety Council for more tips on emergency plans and window fall prevention. And if you’re in NYC with kiddos 10 or under, window guards are a must by law. Hit us up for more info on our products and our expertise in NYC safety requirements!

And remember, Window Safety Week this year will be held April 7-13.

Filed Under: Child Safety, Laws regarding Window Guards Tagged With: , , ,

Holiday Magic: 12 Places to Explore in New York City

December 7, 2023 by

New York City truly comes alive during the winter months with holiday magic. One of the best ways to create lasting memories is to experience the magic of it all with family and friends. We’ve put together a list of 12 must-see holiday experiences. Make time to share some holiday magic with your loved ones this season. Nobody celebrates the holidays like NYC!

Ice Skating

One of New York City’s most beloved holiday traditions is ice skating. Visit the iconic rink at Rockefeller Center or the Winter Village at Bryant Park to be surrounded by holiday cheer. Of course, the Central Park ice skating rink offers beautiful views surrounded by NYC skyscrapers.

Festive Events

  • New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show and Glow – Watch model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 190 replicas of New York landmarks that are whimsically re-created from natural materials. Leave time to take in NYC’s largest outdoor holiday light experience at NYBG GLOW. Thousands of dazzling, energy-efficient light displays reflect the surrounding gardens and collections.
  • Santaland at Macy’s Herald Square – Don’t miss the magic of Macy’s Santaland featuring a 13,000-square-foot North Pole Christmas village complete with live elves, an enchanted forest featuring animatronic toys, and a train display. Of course, Santaland is also where you get to visit with the one true Santa. Reservations are FREE and can be made online up to 5 days in advance. 
  • GingerBread Lane – The world’s largest gingerbread village features 700 hundred gingerbread houses, 4,000lbs of candy, and 1,000lbs of gingerbread! 

Holiday Lights

  • Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights – During the holidays, the Bronx Zoo comes to life each evening with immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns, and animated light shows. Be ready to experience festive entertainment, eat yummy treats, and ride the Holiday Train all with classic holiday music in the background. 
  • Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Explore the beauty of the Garden under moonlight while enjoying seasonal treats and festive music. This is an immersive and magical experience for visitors of all ages.
  • Dyker Heights Christmas Lights – Did you know the most extravagant Christmas light displays in the country are located in the Dyker Heights section of Brooklyn? Be among the over 100,000 people who flock to this area every year to see the over-the-top holiday decorations.
  • The World’s Largest Menorah Lighting: Manhattan – The world’s largest menorah, topping out at 36 feet, will return to Manhattan’s Grand Army Plaza on December 7th.

Seasonal Markets

  • Bryant Park Winter Village – Enjoy yummy treats, local crafts, and artisan gifts from around the world.
  • Union Square Holiday Market – Peruse through 150+ vendors and dozens of award-winning restaurants and retailers at this iconic holiday market.
  • Columbus Circle Holiday Market – This holiday market is a favorite with over 100 artisans and designers selling their own unique wares, like special foods, handmade jewelry, art, home goods, and much more.
  • Grand Holiday Bazaar – Find one-of-a-kind handmade holiday decoration and gifts at 150+ hand-picked independent local artisan booths. 

From our family at Sentry Window Guards, we hope that all of your holiday gatherings and celebrations are filled with joy! For more information regarding our window guard products and our expertise in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today. 

Filed Under: Community Involvement Tagged With: ,

How to Prepare for NYC’s First Big Snowstorm of the Season

November 14, 2023 by

As winter approaches, the anticipation of New York City’s first significant snowstorm of the season brings both excitement and the need for important preparation. The city that never sleeps will soon transform into a winter wonderland, so now is the time to make plans for navigating the snowy streets and ensuring the warmth and safety of your home. Keep reading to explore the essential steps necessary to prepare for the first big snowstorm of the season!

Stay Informed

Staying informed is the key to navigating New York City’s winter weather successfully. Keep an eye on reliable weather sources for up-to-date forecasts. Whether it’s road closures, transit changes, or important updates, knowing what’s coming your way helps you plan ahead and adapt to changing conditions. Enroll in the Notify NYC alert system, which is New York City’s official source for information about emergency alerts and important city services. You can receive alerts through email, text, telephone, or social media.

Stock Up

Being prepared by stocking up on essentials before the first snowflake falls is the best defense for whatever winter throws your way. Having the essentials listed below already on hand can ease your mind during a snowstorm. 

  • Fill a winter emergency kit with a 72-hour supply of food, water, medications, and other essentials for each family member and all pets. Be sure your emergency kit also includes first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, a whistle to signal for help, and copies of important family documents. 
  • Arm yourself with rock salt, shovels, and other snow removal gear to keep the pathways around your home clear.
  • Stay warm and cozy this winter by stocking up on warm clothing, snow boots, hand warmers, and blankets.
  • Keep a couple of portable battery banks regularly charged that can support your mobile phones and any other important electronic equipment during a winter storm power outage.

Prepare Your Home

  • Keep that winter chill on the outside by sealing cracks and insulating windows, doors, attics. A cozy home starts with blocking out the cold drafts.
  • Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your HVAC running as efficiently as possible. Servicing the system now can help provide warmth all winter long.
  • Before winter storms approach, remove any dangerous or dangling tree branches over your house. Branches that are loaded with snow and ice can easily break causing damage to your roof.
  • Pipes can crack and burst when cold temperatures cause the water inside to freeze. Protect outdoor water spigots by disconnecting all garden hoses. If possible, shut off the water supply for external spigots and drain any remaining water. Place an insulated dome around each spigot for further protection. On extremely cold nights, maintain a slow drip to alleviate pressure in the water system, reducing the likelihood of pipe rupture if freezing occurs. The best faucet to leave dripping is the one that is the furthest away from the main pipeline that brings water into your house, allowing more pipes to receive the benefit of the drip.

Make Transportation Plans

If you can, steer clear of driving in a winter snowstorm. Opt for public transportation for a safer journey. If driving is unavoidable, follow the safety tips below. 

  • Make sure to slow down. Keep in mind that speed limits are designed for ideal weather conditions, and it takes longer for vehicles to stop on snowy and icy roads compared to dry pavement. 
  • Stick to major streets or highways whenever you can. 
  • While four-wheel drive vehicles might handle snow-covered roads better, they don’t stop any quicker than other vehicles. 
  • Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s braking system, especially if you have antilock brakes, as they require a different technique in icy or snowy conditions. 
  • When navigating a snowstorm, choose daylight hours for travel and let someone know your plans.

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe. By staying informed about weather conditions, stocking up on winter and emergency supplies, preparing your home, and adopting safe driving practices, you can navigate the challenges of New York City’s first winter snowstorm with confidence! For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

Filed Under: Winter Home Tips Tagged With: , ,

Safeguard Your Home: 5 Essential Fall Maintenance Tasks

October 13, 2023 by

Fall is a season of transition, marked by cooling temperatures and the colorful transformation of leaves. It is also an important time to protect your property and ensure your family’s safety. Let’s delve into five fundamental fall maintenance tasks that will secure your home and bring you peace of mind. From ensuring your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors are in top condition to preparing your heating systems for the upcoming winter, we’ll guide you through the steps needed to maintain a secure and comfortable home. We will also delve into the importance of addressing leaks promptly to prevent water damage and the significance of staying vigilant against pest invasions. Of course, we will highlight the often-overlooked significance of window safety, emphasizing the need for proper window guards and stops to safeguard against accidents. Stay safe and secure with these simple home maintenance tasks!

  • Check your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. Your family’s safety starts with functional smoke detectors and fire alarms. They alert your family to fire and smoke, giving you crucial time to evacuate. Carbon monoxide detectors take on the all important task of notifying you of dangerous levels of this odorless gas. Ensure all of these devices work properly by conducting monthly tests and changing the batteries twice a year. A handy reminder is to replace batteries during the spring and fall daylight saving time transitions.
  • Inspect and maintain all sources of heat before winter. As winter approaches and temperatures drop, it’s essential to ensure your heating systems are in optimal condition to keep your family warm. HVAC systems with cracks, dirty air filters, and poor ventilation can cause poor air quality, higher energy bills, and carbon monoxide buildup. In addition, annual safety inspections and cleanings for both your chimney and fireplace are highly recommended by the National Fire Protection Association. Creosote, an oily wood-tar residue, can cling to chimney walls and pose a significant risk, potentially causing fires to escalate out of control. Stay safe by scheduling regular maintenance for these items.
  • Repair any leaks and address water damage. Unnoticed leaks can cause costly water damage in your home. Inspect potential areas like basements, crawl spaces, under sinks, around faucets, toilets, showers, and beneath appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators. After fixing leaks, promptly deal with any discovered water damage to prevent further issues. Excess moisture can rapidly lead to mold growth if left unattended.
  • Keep pest control up to date. As temperatures drop and leaves change, unwanted pests will be seeking warm shelter and food, posing risks to your home. Pest infestations, whether insects, rodents, or snakes, can cause substantial, uninsured damage. Regular inspections and swift action are key to keeping your property pest-free.
  • Protect your family with window guards. Ensure your windows are safe and secure to prevent accidents. Window guards, when correctly installed, are crucial in preventing falls, as screens alone can’t support a child’s weight. Use window stops to enjoy the fresh, fall air without the risk of windows opening too wide and posing a fall hazard. By taking these simple precautions, you can make your home a safer place for everyone!

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe. By following these essential fall maintenance tasks, you’re not just protecting your property; you’re safeguarding your loved ones. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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Embrace the Magic of Autumn in New York City

September 20, 2023 by

As the leaves transform into hues of red, orange, and yellow, and a crisp breeze fills the air, New York City welcomes the arrival of fall with open arms. The Big Apple offers an array of exciting activities for both locals and visitors during the season of autumn. Here’s your guide to the fun fall activities that await you and your family in the heart of New York City.

  1. Breathtaking Fall Foliage: Central Park stands as the crown jewel of New York City, and during the fall, it shines brighter than ever. The winding paths and serene lakes become even more breathtaking as they are enveloped by the vibrant leaves of fall. Take leisurely strolls through Central Park’s iconic landmarks, including Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge. Don’t forget to capture the exquisite beauty of Bow Bridge framed by golden foliage. Alternatively, hop on a scenic cruise along the Hudson River to witness the breathtaking fall foliage from a unique perspective. Several cruise companies such as Sail NYC, Seastreak and Circle Line offer special fall foliage tours. These cruises allow you to relax and soak in the stunning views of the changing leaves, along with iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.
  2. Pumpkin and Apple Picking: While Midtown Manhattan may not have sprawling pumpkin patches and apple orchards, the surrounding areas provide fantastic options for enjoying quality family time in the fall. Simply hop onto a train or take a short drive, and you’ll discover charming farms offering hayrides, corn mazes, bountiful apple orchards, and pumpkins ready for decorating or carving. Below are some recommended farms where you can relish a perfect fall day of apple picking, pumpkin carving, and indulging in apple cider donuts and freshly pressed cider:
  3. Fall Fairs and Festivals: New York City hosts an array of fall fairs and festivals that celebrate a wide range of interests, from music and culture to art and food. Explore the Harlem Harvest Festival for seasonal produce and artisanal goods, or attend the Downtown Brooklyn Arts Festival for a stunning visual display. Food and drink enthusiasts can indulge in mouthwatering treats at festivals such as the NY Coffee Festival. Here are some notable fall festivals in the city:
  4. Iconic NYC Attractions: Local attractions in New York City embrace the spirit of fall with their unique charm. The New York Botanical Garden’s Fall-O-Ween event includes hundreds of pumpkins and gourds on display, hands-on activities like mini pumpkin decorating, 3D pumpkin carving, food and beverage talks, tastings and more. Pumpkin Nights at the Bronx Zoo will showcase more than 5,000 carved, animal-themed pumpkins in a jack-o’-lantern trail stretching over half a mile. Visitors can also enjoy live pumpkin carving demonstrations, games, and indulge in festive fall treats and food truck delights. 
  5. Explore Historic Sites: Fall provides an excellent opportunity to explore New York City’s historic sites without the summer crowds. Consider visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, embarking on a tour of the historic neighborhoods of Harlem, paying tribute to heroes and remembering victims at the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, dedicating an entire day to exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or venturing into the grounds of the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art nestled in Fort Tryon Park.

From leisurely walks through Central Park to exhilarating fall festival adventures, New York City offers an abundance of exciting fall activities for all to enjoy. So, make plans to embrace the magic of autumn in the city that never sleeps, and create lasting memories with your loved ones! 

All of us at Sentry Window Guards hope that you have a season of joy this fall! For more information regarding our window guard products and our expertise in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today.

Filed Under: Holidays Tagged With: ,

4 Step Plan to be Prepared for Hurricane Season in New York City

August 30, 2023 by

The hurricane season in New York runs from June to November, with the peak potential for hurricanes occurring between August and October. Are you and your home ready to face these natural challenges? While many hurricane predictions provide a few days of warning, certain weather patterns may give you mere minutes. Familiarizing yourself with the region’s major weather patterns and alert systems can significantly aid your preparedness efforts. Below, we’ve outlined steps that anyone can take to ensure readiness for hurricane season or any upcoming severe weather events. Although you may never need to implement these preparations, they can be invaluable in the eye of a storm.

1).Assemble a Go Bag for Emergency Evacuation

Prepare a go bag that contains essential items for each family member to sustain them during a potential evacuation. FEMA recommends a 72-hour supply of food, water, medications, and other essentials for each family member. Make sure your go bag includes first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, a whistle for signaling help, copies of crucial family documents, portable phone chargers, cash, backup medical equipment, toiletries, and sleeping bags or bedding.

2) Establish an Emergency Communication Plan

Ensure that every member of your household understands what actions to take during a weather emergency, how to reconnect with each other, and how to communicate effectively. Determine a convenient and safe meeting point before an evacuation. It’s important to teach children not to hide from emergency responders like police and firefighters, who are there to help.

3) Stay Informed with Notify NYC and Wireless Emergency Alerts

Enroll all family members with cell phones in the Notify NYC alert system, New York City’s official source for emergency alerts and essential city services. Stay connected with this system by setting up alerts through email, text, telephone, or social media. Additionally, subscribe to wireless emergency alerts on all cell phones. When the National Weather Service issues alerts, these warnings are sent instantly to WEA-enabled devices within the affected area, covering events like tornadoes, flash floods, hurricanes, dust storms, extreme winds, tsunamis, AMBER Alerts, and evacuation orders.

4) Safeguard Your Home Ahead of the Storm

Take proactive measures to protect your home and belongings before a storm hits:

  • Prune weak branches from trees and shrubs near your home.
  • Move outdoor items indoors, including patio furniture, decorations, grills, potted plants, bicycles, and toys.
  • Install storm shutters or attach plywood to window frames to limit window damage.
  • Inspect and repair your roof to withstand wind and flying objects.
  • Clear and maintain gutters to ensure proper water drainage and prevent leaks.
  • Turn off accessible water, gas, and electrical lines before evacuating.
  • If possible, park your vehicle in a covered area, like a garage.

By following these steps, you can be better prepared to face hurricane season or any unforeseen severe weather events. Remember, preparation is key to ensuring the safety of yourself, your family, and your home. At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe in New York. For more information regarding our window guard products and our expertise in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

Filed Under: Safety Tips Tagged With: ,

4 Safety Concerns to Look for in Older New York Homes

July 23, 2023 by

New York City is known for its diverse architectural landscape, and there are many older homes scattered throughout the city that may have hidden safety concerns. Older homes add character and historical charm to different neighborhoods. Brooklyn is known for its historic neighborhoods with rows of brownstones and older homes. In areas of Queens and the Bronx, you can find older single-family homes, as well as multifamily houses, some of which were built in the early 20th century. The character, charm, and unique personalities of older homes is undeniable. If you live in an older home in New York City or are considering purchasing one, we have some safety concerns to keep on your radar.

Electrical and Plumbing

In many cases, the electrical and plumbing systems in older homes may need updating. Building codes and safety standards have evolved over time. Updating the electrical and plumbing systems in older homes can bring them in line with current code requirements, making the home safer and easier to insure. Older electrical and plumbing systems might also be less energy-efficient, resulting in higher utility bills. Upgrading to more efficient systems can lead to cost savings in the long run.

Foundation

It’s important not to overlook foundation or structural concerns in an older home, as they can significantly impact the structural integrity of the house and lead to costly repairs. Look for visible signs such as cracks in the walls, especially around windows and doors, uneven floors or floors that slope, doors and windows that stick or do not close properly, gaps between walls and the ceiling or floors and cracks in the exterior brickwork or foundation. A professional home inspector will have the expertise to identify potential foundation issues, while a structural engineer can give a more in-depth analysis if problems are found.

Window Guards

While strong doors are the first line of defense for your security, windows are the second. Windows should have sturdy, easy to use locks. Also, look for secure window guards. NYC building owners are required to provide and properly install approved window guards on all windows, including first floor bathrooms, windows leading onto a balcony or terrace in an apartment where a child 10 years of age or younger resides, and windows in each common area, on any floor. Additionally, if tenants or occupants want window guards for any reason, even if there are no resident children 10 years of age or younger, the tenant can request the window guards in writing. 

Hazardous Materials

There are several hazardous materials that can be found in older homes, especially those constructed before the mid-1970s when building regulations were not as strict. These materials may pose health risks if they are disturbed, damaged, or deteriorating. Asbestos, lead-based paint, mold, radon, formaldehyde, and lead pipes can all lead to contamination in the home. It is important to be aware of the potential presence of these hazardous materials in older homes, particularly before undertaking any renovation or remodeling projects. It is always best to consult with professionals trained in the safe removal and remediation of these materials.

Sentry Window Guards can provide various types of childproof window locking mechanisms and safety devices for a home of any age. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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4 Tips to Make the Most Out of Small Space Living in NYC

June 21, 2023 by

Those who live in New York City love it and could never imagine living anywhere else! Of course small space living is the norm in NYC, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still live large. Your home can feel open and welcoming, no matter the size. With a little planning and a lot of creativity, you can effortlessly unlock the secret to living large in your cozy NYC dwelling.

1) The first step is to clear the clutter. Maintaining a well-organized and uncluttered floor space is essential. Minimizing the interruptions in floor lines will reduce visual fatigue and create a more open environment. In addition, freeing up your floor space gives you more room to move around! When decluttering, it is beneficial to reflect on the emotional attachments you may have to your possessions. Asking these questions as you are purging can guide you to make more intentional choices about your living space.

  • Does this item add value to my life?
  • Have I used this item in the last year?
  • Do I have more than one of these items? 
  • Would I buy this item again?
  • How many times have I used this item
  • Does this item fit in my space?

2) Opt for multifunctional furniture that doubles as storage. This will not only save space, but it will also save money. Instead of investing in multiple furniture pieces, consider having one item of furniture with multiple functions. For example, consider replacing your lounge chair or sofa with a versatile sleeper couch. Swap out your coffee table for an ottoman that doubles as additional seating for guests. Choose an entryway bench equipped with storage compartments to neatly accommodate extra shoes. Explore the option of a room divider that features built-in shelving, and utilize dividers and shelf inserts to organize items neatly. Prioritize tables with drawers to increase storage capacity.

3) Use the vertical space in your home. Create storage where there once was none by adding floating shelves to your walls. Mounted storage cabinets serve as excellent space-saving alternatives, providing additional storage possibilities. Desks, televisions, and lamps are other items that can be mounted on the wall to help turn wall space into floor space. By utilizing these wall-mounted options, you can create a sense of openness and enhance functionality. Additionally, consider drawing the gaze upward with a fun light fixture, crown molding, tall window treatments, or elevated shelves.

4) Decorate to give the illusion of a more spacious environment. Small spaces often suffer from limited natural light due to having small windows or a lack of windows. Pull in as much natural light from your windows as possible. Embrace multiple sources of light for all other areas. Try vertical floor lamps in the corners of the room for a wide open feeling. Opting for a monochromatic color scheme or utilizing varying shades of the same color can make your space feel larger. Soft, pale, neutral colors on the walls and floor will give the biggest illusion of space. Use reflective surfaces like glass and mirrors to bounce the light from windows and create the impression of increased square footage. Finally, remember that there’s no need to fill every inch of your small space with decor. Leaving open space can make your home feel bigger and more airy. 

If you are searching for lighter colored window guards to complement your home, Sentry Window Guards is proud to be the first in the industry to offer 20 standard architectural colors in AAMA 2604 Powder Coating. This finish utilizes the newest green technology, providing an unmatched performance in durability exceeding all industry standards and is able to match any building facade and window frame colors. Sentry is also capable of matching any color that isn’t part of our standard color selection.

Just like you, Sentry Window Guards is proud to call New York City our home and the forefront of our mission is creating a safe and secure environment for your family. We provide various types of childproof window locking mechanisms and safety devices for your home or building. To learn more about our products and how they effectively promote window safety in NYC homes, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

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