Did you know that the number of people who experience flooding is set to nearly double by 2050? Poor home drainage systems, burst water mains, and climate change are common causes of a flood and can lead to water entering and damaging your home.

Whatever the cause, do you know what to do after a flood? If not, we’ve got you covered – follow our step-by-step guide to know what to do if you find yourself in deep water.

Stay Safe

Before anything else, you need to know that everyone’s safe. If your home is undergoing fast and severe flood damage, you and your household will need to evacuate.

If it’s possible to do so, shut off your electricity at the source to prevent the risk of the water getting to it.

Stop Water Ingress

When you’re all safe and accounted for, the next thing is to cut the water off at its source if possible. For example, if the source is a burst pipe, then you should shut off your water supply to the house.

Keep a Record

While it may be difficult to do, you need to take pictures at every stage of the flood. Whether it’s a plumbing issue or storm damage, keeping a photographic record will help you later on.

Get the Floodwater Out

Depending on the amount of floodwater in your home, you’ll need to gather your tools accordingly. If it’s minimal damage, you might just need a mop, bucket, and some towels to get rid of the water. For worse flooding, find large receptacles like bins, and you may even need a hose to get the water level down.

Call Your Insurance Company

Next, you’ll want to call your insurance company. They’ll advise you on the kind of information they’ll need, like an inventory of what has sustained water damage.

If your insurance company refuses to pay out, then you’ll need some extra help with your insurance claim. For example, contact Shochet Law Group for a team of experts who’ll help you get a successful claim.

Allow the House to Dry Out

Your home will now need to dry out, which can take 12-24 hours, or longer for serious flooding.

Use a wet vacuum to remove excess moisture from floors, rugs, and carpets. Heaters can help dry out surfaces, and dehumidifiers will remove that water from the air.

Clean-Up and Damage Repair

Once your home has dried out, you’ll need to clean away the dirt and debris that will have settled. Check it for signs of mold, as mold spores love damp and cold environments. If you do find moldy patches, clean these away with mold killer or bleach.

For more serious repairs, like electrical work and plumbing, call in the experts who will safely restore your services.

Know What to Do After a Flood

You never know when you’re going to find yourself a victim of flood damage, so arm yourself by learning what to do after a flood.

By stopping the water at its source and getting rid of the excess, you can allow your home to dry out. Call your insurers so they can help you with cleanup, and remember to take pictures all the way. Just follow our step-by-step guide, and you’ll be able to fix water damage in a trice.

Did you enjoy this article? Then check out our Lifestyle section for more great tips.

According to the latest available research, renters in the U.S. spend around 30% of their income on housing every month. Some spend as much as 50% of their earnings on this necessity. 

With this in mind, it’s not surprising that many people are seeking a lower cost of living by moving elsewhere, as remote-working options increase.

Keep reading to find out more about the top ten cities with the highest rent in the U.S. and whether the high prices are worthwhile.  

1. New York, New York

After just a year in second place, New York reclaimed its top spot in 2022. Rents are still excessive in this metropolis, with an average of $3,400 prevalent throughout the city.

New York has much to offer upwardly mobile professionals, fun-seekers, and entrepreneurs and truly is a place of non-stop action. For these reasons, many find the high price of a New York address worth every cent. 

2. San Francisco, California

Despite an annual increase of just one percent per year in recent times, San Francisco topped the rankings as the most expensive city to live in the USA last year, with rents averaging over $3,500 per month.

Now, these huge prices have settled down to around just over $3,000 monthly as people flee to cheaper destinations. 

San Francisco is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do, so it’s not surprising living here comes at a premium price. 

3. San Jose, California

Yet another California city, San Jose, has an average rent price of almost $3,000, an increase of 19.7% in recent times. Initially, renters chose this upmarket city for its downward trend in rental prices.

Now that the tables have turned, many renters have to look elsewhere. 

4. Boston, Massachusetts

It seems almost everyone wants to live in Boston nowadays. That’s because the city offers excellent healthcare and education as well as a wealth of opportunities for cultural enrichment, entertainment, and shopping.

As a result, the laws of supply and demand dictate high rents of over $2,600 per month. 

5. San Diego, California

In recent times, San Diego has soared up the ‘most-expensive list’ from ninth place in 2020. With the option to choose where they work, the well-heeled have started to filter into this city for its laid-back vibe, great beaches, outstanding food, and blissful weather. 

Once again, this influx of people has seen rents rise to an average of $2,400 for 2022.

6. Oakland, California

Oakland has grown rapidly in the last few years thanks to its location in the Bay Area, an ever-improving infrastructure, and promising employment opportunities. 

Thanks to this, rents are on the rise, topping $2500 in 2022.

7. Miami, Florida

Florida’s perennial popularity is partly responsible for huge price hikes in Miami, where you can expect to pay around $2,484 for rent right now. 

What’s more, Miami dedicates itself to becoming the best destination for business in the USA. It’s already attracted some big hitters from the tech industry like Swag Up, Blackstone, and Founders Fund.

The city also offers abundant opportunities for small businesses along with favorable tax rates.   

8. Los Angeles, California

It’s no secret that LA is a high-priced city, being home to hundreds of wealthy celebrities and sportspeople. Rents in LA are currently around $2,300.

This diverse creative hub is a huge drawcard for those wanting to make it big in entertainment and also a vibrant, entertaining, and attractive city.  

9. Washington, DC

Washington, DC is on a par with LA when it comes to rentals, with an average price of $2,300 per month or more, depending on where you choose to stay.

It’s still an attractive city for employment seekers, families, and those seeking a mild climate, great food, and entertainment options. 

10. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a safe city, offering abundant access to nature and some great food, to boot. Add to that, there’s no state income tax and plenty of employment opportunities.

It’s no wonder people will pay an average of $1,890 to rent a home in this exciting up-and-coming city.     

People Are Moving to Avoid the Highest Rent in the U.S.

These high prices, as well as health concerns, are responsible for mass migration to cheaper, less populated places of late. Thousands of homeowners and renters alike are moving from these hot spots to quieter, cheaper areas.

The most popular places for people to make a new start are:

North Carolina

Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte are growing rapidly as more people head for the Tar Heel State to enjoy mild weather and cheap prices. 

According to rentbottomline.com, the rent in Charlotte is $1,500 per month or as little as $899 in the cheapest neighborhoods. Raleigh and Durham offer similarly low monthly rental prices of around $1.400.  

Colorado

Colorado’s challenging winters aren’t enough to stop people from migrating to Fort Collins to enjoy a cheaper cost of living. Rents in this smaller city hover between $1,300 and $1,600 per month. 

Florida

Miami aside, Florida shines as a sunny, relaxed destination with low taxes and great weather. The most popular places for movers to Florida include Myrtle Beach, Sarasota, and Fort Myers.

The average rents in these areas are around $1,500 if you avoid beachfront locations. 

Are You Ready to Take Back Your Spending Power?

While it’s within your ability to avoid these cities with the highest rent in the U.S., there’s little you can do about the ever-increasing rental costs across the country.

So, if you want to enjoy at least some of your earnings every month, you need to weigh up the pros and cons of your living arrangements, first. 

If moving is an impossibility right now, there are other ways to save. Browse our blog for more information on a huge range of interesting topics, including more money-saving tips. 

Did you know that the CDC says that many kids are using way too much toothpaste when brushing, which could lead to streaky or splotchy teeth when they are older? Children aged 3 to 6 should only be using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and children younger than that should be using a smear of toothpaste to brush their teeth. 

As a parent, you might be wondering what kind of children’s toothpaste would be best for your child’s optimal oral health. Keep reading to find out how to choose the best children’s toothpaste. 

Must Have Flouride

The first thing you need to watch for when finding a children’s toothpaste is whether it has fluoride in it or not. It’s the most important ingredient in a child’s toothpaste and if you have fluoride, the type or brand of toothpaste is pretty much inconsequential. 

Must Have Flavor

Children will prefer toothpaste with a great flavor, perhaps fruit flavoring or something akin to that. This will ensure that your child will not spit out the toothpaste before it even has a chance to do its job. There are many kid-friendly options on the market.

Must Be Fun

The children’s toothpaste you choose will also have to be fun. You are building a lifelong habit here and you want to ensure you start on the right foot. If you ensure that your child has fun with their brushing habits now, they will keep on doing it even when you aren’t supervising them. 

Must Be Pediatric Dentist Recommended

If you aren’t sure about making this decision on your own, then you might want to consult a pediatry dentist for more advice. They can make recommendations about children’s toothpaste that aren’t abrasive and will keep the integrity of your infant’s fragile baby teeth. 

Google ‘pediatric dentist near me‘ if you want some more tips on teaching your child proper brushing techniques and habits. 

Must Be ADA Approved

The American Dental Association gives its ‘seal of approval’ to toothpaste when they believe that they can recommend the toothpaste to clients without any fear. Does the child toothpaste you’ve chosen have that seal of approval? If not, find something else. 

These approved and recommended kinds of toothpaste are also safe to use for children, which will give you that peace of mind.

Children’s Toothpaste Must Be Chosen with Care

You want your children to have a bright and sparkling smile, but you don’t want the toothpaste they use to damage their teeth. That’s why choosing the right children’s toothpaste requires a bit of forethought and research. 

If you have a pediatric dentist that you visit regularly, then they can give you the lowdown on the best options around. 

Don’t forget to check out related articles on health and fitness on our website and keep optimizing your and your family’s life. We update our website daily.

Even though we have many dental treatment options, having a tooth pulled may still be necessary for several reasons. Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction to treat and prevent the spread of tooth decay. Tooth extraction is also a treatment option for orthodontic reasons.

If your dentist recommended a tooth extraction, you’re probably wondering if the procedure will hurt. Since you’re essentially getting a tooth pulled, you may expect to feel some pain. However, there are plenty of anesthetic and medication options to eliminate any pain you feel.

Is tooth extraction painful? Continue reading to see what the experts have to say and how to manage pain after a tooth extraction.

Tooth Extraction Process

First, let’s look at the actual tooth extraction process to gauge how and when you will feel pain — if any.

Your dentist will first administer a local anesthetic. There are a couple of different types of anesthesia that your dentist may use. Be sure to mention if you or your child have allergies or prior complications with a specific anesthetic. Learn more here.

To administer the anesthetic, your dentist will inject it into the gum line of the tooth they will pull. This way, the area will be completely numb.

From here, your dentist will use a tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth from the gum. They will then extract the tooth using forceps. During this part, it’s normal to feel pressure. But because of the anesthetic, you shouldn’t feel pain. Always inform your dentist if the pain is bad. They will administer more anesthetic.

What if you need a surgical extraction? Your dentist will still use a local anesthetic, but they will make an incision instead of using the elevator tool. Again, since you’ll be numbed, you’ll experience more pressure than pain.

Other Anesthesia Options

Local anesthesia is always the first choice for dentists, but you can opt for general or sedation anesthesia if you’re uncomfortable.

For sedation anesthesia, your dentist will likely use nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas). The sedation will be minimal and you’ll mainly feel relaxed during the procedure.

A general anesthetic is also an option, but only reserved for special situations. With general anesthesia, you’ll fully lose consciousness and will be asleep during the procedure. Your dentist will administer the anesthesia through an IV or inhalation.

Pain After a Tooth Extraction

While your dentist will use general anesthesia, there may be pain during the healing process. If so, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce your pain. If you had a surgical extraction, your dentist may prescribe pain medication.

Be sure to care for yourself and your oral health during the healing process. Rest if the pain gets too bad. Use an ice pack to reduce any swelling. Eat soft food so you don’t chew as much. Be sure to rinse your mouth with salt water to prevent an infection.

Is Tooth Extraction Painful?

If your dentist recommended a tooth extraction, you may be asking yourself this question: is tooth extraction painful? Since your dentist will use anesthesia, you shouldn’t feel any pain but a little pressure is normal. You can always request sedation or general anesthesia if you’re uncomfortable.

Continue reading our blog where we answer all of your pressing health questions!

Did you know that 32.6% of working adults in the US reported sleeping less than six hours per night on average? This figure, which has increased in the past few years, is quite concerning given that the recommended amount of hours for optimal health is eight.

Good-quality sleep, in fact, is one of the cornerstones of good mental and physical health. If you are currently struggling with meeting your recommended hours of sleep, then this article is for you.

Let’s find out how you can improve your sleeping habits by choosing, and maintaining, the best position to sleep in and encourage a good night’s sleep.

Sleeping On Your Left Side 

There is little doubt about it. Most sleep experts agree that good sleep hygiene begins with sleeping on your left side. You might have heard about this already, but do you know why this sleep position is so good for you?

First of all, side sleeping allows you to support and align your spine property, which in turn helps to relax and rest your muscles. Secondly, sleeping on your left side has been proven to relieve pressure on some of your internal organs.

This sleeping position is also the best choice for pregnant women, particularly those in the second and third trimesters. The reason is simple: by sleeping on your left side, you put a lot less pressure on your growing baby while allowing for optimal blood flow from the vena cava.

This vein plays a fundamental role in carrying blood to your heart and to your baby, which is why ensuring that it works correctly is paramount.

How to Encourage This Sleeping Position

If sleeping on your side is a new thing for you, it might need some getting adjusted to. For example, try the following:

• Switch from left to right side throughout the night
• Purchase the best pillow for side sleepers
• Place one pillow between your legs, and one behind your lower back to ensure correct support

Best Alternative: Sleeping On Your Back

Unless you are pregnant or suffering from a specific medical condition, you can choose to sleep on your back as another option to facilitate a good night’s rest. This is a very popular sleeping position, and its effectiveness is also supported by scientific evidence.

When you lie flat on your back, remember to relax your arms by your side. This will help you to keep your spine aligned while balancing out your weight evenly.

How to Encourage This Sleeping Position

You can maintain this sleeping position by trying the following tips:

• Place a pillow under your knees for optimal spine support and alignment
• Consider buying a supportive pillow to hold your head and neck. These should be around 3 to 5 inches thick and are great for back sleepers

Know (and Maintain) the Best Position to Sleep in

As we have discovered in this article, the best position to sleep in is lying on your side, preferably your left. This helps ensure good blood flow, rest your muscles, and promote optimal spine support and alignment.

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