One of the more popular choices to power electronics at home amongst consumers is lithium-ion batteries. This is because of the large amount of power they can use at a given size and weight. But occasionally, we hear about such batteries failing and bursting into flames. The phenomenon can result in mild or severe damage in its surroundings. This article discusses five top reasons why some lithium-ion batteries may malfunction. Read on to learn more. Manufacturing defect The functionality of a battery is based on the quality of its manufacturing process. Any flaws during production may lead to impure metallic particles seeping into the unit during assembly. Thinning of separators while manufacturing may also have adverse effects on the health of the battery. So manufacturers must ensure each cell is made in controlled cleanrooms and conduct quality-control tests and validation before being sold. Design flaw While the manufacturing process of a battery might be carried out without hiccups, a flaw in the design might ruin the entire batch. A poor design can cause damage to the electrodes or separate them and lead to a short circuit. Therefore, those designing batteries should check the design multiple times before manufacturing the lithium-ion battery. Usage with incompatible devices Each battery is designed to serve a specific purpose. So one cannot use a bigger battery in a device that only supports a smaller version and expect it to function. Moreover, using incorrect devices in appliances, vehicles, or other devices may also lead to short circuits and fires. Penetrating the battery pack Most battery manufacturers print a set of safety guidelines on a battery that each individual must follow. And though one of the guidelines may include not penetrating the battery pack, some individuals still do it. This can result in short circuits and fires that can cause widespread damage.

Bunions or hallux valgus is a condition in which a bulge develops on the side of the foot along the joint of the big toe. This happens due to the wrong alignment of the bones and muscles surrounding the joint, leading to this bump. Bunions are very common and affect one in every third of individuals in the country; however, there are ways to handle pain without surgery. Here’s how. Hot and cold therapy This is a great way to manage the pain caused by bunions. These are natural treatments with no side effects and can easily be administered in the comfort of your home. Here’s what you need to know – when the bunions are swollen, you should apply cold therapy, like soaking your bunion in cold water to help reduce the inflammation. Cold therapy helps constrict the blood vessels, which is helpful. The cool water will also help relieve the foot, which has been irritated because of the bunion swelling. Heat therapies are helpful when the blood vessels don’t need constricting but need better blood flow and help relax the sore muscles and joints. Heat therapy should be applied if soreness and cramping are the pain symptoms in the bunion-affected area. Exercise and rest These may seem contradictory, but it actually means finding the right balance between exercise and rest. Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to strengthen the feet and muscles. Some specific toe exercises like toe curls or picking up marbles or socks with toes can be especially helpful in keeping the feet active and healthy. However, choosing to rest when bunion pain or other symptoms is equally important. Give your feet a break from exercising and let them rest, massage, and treat them with care to help relieve the pain symptoms. Comfortable shoes An essential part of managing bunion pain is having the right footwear.

Although made from skin cells, fingernails and toenails are hard due to the laminated layers of a protein called keratin. Regardless of their texture, nails are an essential body part as they help us pick up things and protect our toes and fingers. Hence it’s crucial to care for them and maintain their health and appearance. What follows are a few dos and don’ts when practicing a nail care routine. Dos for healthy nails Keep them dry and clean Fingernails and toenails shouldn’t be kept wet for too long as moisture is a hotbed of bacteria production. Soaking the nails in water for an extended period can also lead to a split in the fingernails, which can become painful and lead to infections. Always wear rubber gloves with a cotton inner lining when washing dishes and cleaning the house or bathroom. They will keep your hands and nails from getting wet and coming into contact with harsh chemicals. Cut them regularly An essential component of good personal hygiene is cutting the nails regularly. While you can get a manicure from a professional, using clean clippers at home will also do the job. Cut the tips across and then shape them from the sides for a gentle curve that doesn’t hurt or get stuck in clothes. Moisturize Yes, you must moisturize the cuticles and fingernails. Nail dryness can lead to the formation of painful dead skin, cracks, and flaky skin. Besides using a moisturizer, you can apply a nail hardener that helps strengthen the nails. Don’ts for healthy nails Bite your nails Biting the nails and cuticles is a habit some unknowingly develop. A minor cut alongside the fingernail can cause mouth bacteria to enter the wound, causing an infection. Biting the cuticles can also cause inflammation, which can be painful.

A clean and well-maintained bathroom not only promotes personal hygiene but also contributes to the overall cleanliness and ambiance of one’s home. Today, several bathroom cleaning products and equipment are available to ensure a spick-and-span bathroom. Even so, certain common bathroom cleaning mistakes can hinder one’s efforts. This article delves into these prevalent errors and provides valuable insights on how to steer clear of them, ensuring that one’s bathroom shines with pristine brilliance. Neglecting regular cleaning One of the most common mistakes people make is neglecting regular bathroom cleaning. Bathrooms are susceptible to moisture, which can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Skipping regular cleaning sessions can allow these issues to escalate, making them harder to tackle later on. Using the wrong cleaning products Using the wrong cleaning products can be ineffective and damage bathroom surfaces. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, can corrode fixtures and harm one’s health when used without proper ventilation. It is crucial to select cleaning products that are suitable for the specific surfaces in one’s bathroom, like tile, porcelain, or granite. Not allowing cleaning products to sit Rushing through a bathroom cleaning routine can lead to another common mistake: not allowing cleaning products to sit. Many bathroom cleaners require time to break down stains, soap scum, and bacteria effectively. Thus, one should read the labels and follow the recommended wait times to ensure that cleaning products work their best. Ignoring grout lines Grout lines between tiles are notorious for collecting dirt, mold, and mildew. Ignoring these areas while cleaning can lead to unsightly discoloration and potential health hazards. Thus, it is wise to invest in a grout brush and tackle these spaces regularly to maintain a fresh and clean bathroom. Overusing toilet bowl cleaners Toilet bowl cleaners can be quite potent, but using them excessively is a common mistake.

Personal loans can help with various expenses, such as planning a vacation, further education, home renovation, or even health expenses. These loans can also aid in completing a renovation project instead of abandoning it halfway due to budgetary constraints. However, the loan application process can be daunting and may lead to mishaps that can prove costly later on. Check out some common mistakes to avoid, specifically those with poor credit scores. Not checking score Not checking the credit score before applying for loans is one of the most common loan application mistakes and can prove to be detrimental. It may be so that the credit reports have inaccuracies that further impact the individual’s credit score. So, before applying for a personal loan, checking credit reports for errors and verifying the score from one of the top credit bureaus is recommended. Applying to different lenders simultaneously Another practice that negatively impacts a person’s credit score is simultaneously applying to multiple loan vendors. When an individual submits multiple applications within a short period, it can damage their scores, especially if they are rejected. Each loan application is handled with proper credit checks that can result in temporarily lowered scores. Individuals can instead research beforehand and apply to lenders dealing with poor credit scores. Only caring about interest Interest rates are crucial when applying for a loan and calculating the total payable amount. However, loan applicants often make a mistake: they become single-mindedly fixated on the loan’s interest rate. It becomes the deciding factor and the motivation for applying. However, aggressive rate shopping behavior can result in harder inquiries. Applicants should look for lenders willing to loan them the amount despite their poor credit score, even if they must accept a higher interest rate for their loan. Later, they can choose to refinance their loan with one that has a lower interest rate.

Doors and windows not only give the house an aesthetic appeal but also protect it against external factors such as weather conditions, dust, sunlight, and intruders. They also give peace of mind, a sense of security, and privacy to the home dwellers. It’s important to maintain them regularly to ensure their longevity and functionality. However, there are some common mistakes that people make during maintenance, which can end up causing problems. Not inspecting the frame regularly Keep an eye out for any wear and tear on the window or door frame. Certain signs show it needs maintenance. Some common signs to look for are paint peeling off, warping, cracks or splits, difficulty opening or closing the door or window, loose or missing screws, and more. If the frame is wooden, check if it has become warped or brittle due to sun damage. With the glass wall structure of double or triple-paned windows, moisture can get stuck between panes and reduce its effectiveness. Seasonal weather change also affects the frame structure. Forgetting about seals Seals ensure that the windows and doors remain energy efficient, so it’s important to check their functionality regularly. If there are any issues with the seals, it can hike energy bills as warm or cold air may escape and lead the heater or air conditioner to use more energy. Broken seals can also cause water to leak, and moisture can damage the structure further. Not inspecting locks Door or window locks ensure the safety of the house and protection from harsh weather. It’s important to inspect and maintain their condition. Cleaning the lock with a mild cleanser or damp cloth once a month and lubricating it can work well for most locks. Avoid using force while opening or closing doors and windows, as it can loosen mechanisms and even break components.

Technological advancements have enabled access to therapy from the comfort of home. So, psychiatrists can provide their services via virtual sessions. Online psychiatry services are especially beneficial for those who may not be able to visit a mental health professional in person or those who can not find suitable therapists nearby. Today, several online platforms facilitate psychiatric consultations. To make choosing a provider easier, here are some of the best platforms one can consider: 1. Teladoc Teladoc is among the most reputed online platforms for accessing therapy and psychiatric consultation. One of the platform’s key features is the option to choose a therapist or psychiatrist. One can see if they are comfortable with their choice and then continue to consult the same therapist for all sessions or choose a different one. This platform is accessible through both website and mobile application. So, users can attend therapy sessions via video chats on the electronic device of their choice. Another great feature of this platform is its pay-per-session model instead of a fixed subscription model. So, one can schedule and skip sessions if necessary. 2. Talkspace Talkspace is another great platform for online therapy and psychiatrist consultation. It offers a different approach when it comes to choosing a therapist. The platform asks users to take an assessment based on which they are matched with the most suitable psychiatrist. If one wishes to switch their provider, they can do that for no additional cost. A great thing about Talkspace is that, along with live video consultations, it offers call and text consultations at a lower price. 3. Brightside Brightside is another common online service provider that offers psychotherapy and psychiatric consultations. This platform also offers consultations via live video chats and instant messaging, so one can text their therapist at any time. This is a subscription based service that charges users on a monthly basis.

Individuals with disabilities face many unique challenges in their daily lives. By using certain creative techniques and being mindful of accessibility barriers, one can support such individuals while they are at work, at home, or in social settings. These accommodations often require awareness, flexibility, and thoughtful considerations. Here are a few ways one can help people with disabilities to improve their participation, mainly at work, and create a fair and inclusive environment for them. Ask first before extending help Always make it a point to ask people with disabilities if they need help rather than assuming they do. One can also ask for specific instructions on what help is needed to ensure the individual feels empowered and independent. It’s also necessary for one to respect their boundaries. Check accessibility before planning anything Before planning a meeting or an outing, ensure that the spaces are accessible to people with disabilities. It ensures their full and easy participation. For example, in work settings, installing a visual warning system for emergencies will help people with hearing impairment. Some other ways of supporting them include providing interpreters, amplifying systems, note-takers, and communication through emails instead of announcements for meetings. Respect their personal space Mobility aids like walking sticks or wheelchairs form part of the personal space of those with mobility-related disabilities, so avoid touching or leaning against them or moving these pieces of equipment without their permission. Avoid using jargon while speaking It is best to avoid using jargon as such words can sometimes be abbreviations for other concepts; also, avoid using gestures, as they may signify other meanings. For example, ADA stands for average daily attendance, but it also stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act, the American Dental Association, and so on. Do not speak in exaggerated tones or facial expressions, which may cause misinterpretations.

The thought of taking a holiday feels so relaxing, doesn’t it? It is time to take that break for real now without having to break the bank. Contrary to popular belief, traveling doesn’t always require big savings because there are plenty of ways to save money and travel in a pocket-friendly manner. This article explores seven amazing hacks customers must try to book flights for cheap for their next getaway. Be flexible with travel dates Being flexible is one of the best ways to score discounts and deals on flight tickets. Try to travel when most people stay home, as airlines are more likely to offer better prices then. Book in incognito mode Websites often track users’ searches and may eventually present inflated rates. To avoid this, it is better to use a VPN or switch to incognito mode when researching and booking tickets. Follow airlines on social media platforms Subscribe to airline newsletters and social media platforms to stay up to date on any new or upcoming deals they may be offering. This can be a superb way of getting an additional discount on one’s airfare. Check ticket prices on less busy days Scheduling flights for the weekends could cost travelers a lot of money. According to recent studies, one can save anywhere between 12-20% on economy tickets for flights scheduled in the middle of the week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Try to plan the travel around these days to travel cost-effectively. Choose a budget airline Instead of booking with well-known airlines, look for budget options to save extra bucks. Note that these airlines generally do not offer the same amenities and may charge extra for luggage, seat allocation, etc. Consider these expenses to get an overall estimate of the cost of the flight. Use a travel credit card Travel credit cards are also a great way of saving money, as they often offer customers a sign-on miles bonus and other benefits.

Having a pet is an incredibly rewarding and heartwarming experience, but caring for them isn’t easy. It requires a lot of involvement, whether it is in the form of time, attention, or resources. A pet’s health and happiness depend on many factors, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive measures, mental stimulation, a loving environment, and more. However, some mistakes that pet parents make may compromise their pet’s health and well-being. Ignoring fleas and ticks Pet parents often make the mistake of ignoring minor fleas and ticks, thinking that they will go away on their own. But fleas and ticks are pests that not only cause pets discomfort but also put them at risk of developing infections, skin irritation, and other diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. So, one should regularly check for signs of these pests and use measures like flea collars and treatments, especially during warmer months, to ensure optimal pet health. Not paying attention to oral hygiene Pets may not necessarily need brushing and flossing daily as humans do, but they require a certain level of dental care. Poor oral hygiene can cause tartar buildup, gum disease, or heart or kidney issues. While brushing a pet’s teeth is the best option to maintain their oral hygiene, chewable toys like chewables by PetSmart, especially for dogs, are also an option. These easy-to-digest treats give clean teeth, fresh breath, and mental stimulation. One can get chewable PetSmart items in different sizes and tastes. Not using identification tags Using an identification tag is often overlooked as a simple precautionary measure. A collar with an ID tag contains all the necessary information about the pet owner’s phone number, name, and, in some cases, home address. It ensures the pet is never lost or, if found, can be returned to safety and reunited with their owner.

With the holiday season fast approaching, the excitement of Black Friday is palpable. This annual extravaganza offers a golden opportunity to acquire top products at surprising discounts. For those looking to elevate their cleaning regimen, Dyson vacuums are a great choice. Renowned for their cutting-edge technology, Dyson has become synonymous with superior cleaning solutions. This Black Friday, Dyson vacuum cleaners are set to make a splash, offering discerning customers substantial savings without compromising quality. Dyson Gen5detect The Dyson Gen5detect is a marvel of engineering designed to take precision cleaning to a whole new level. At its core lies an array of advanced sensors that meticulously detect the tiniest particles, ensuring no speck of dust or allergen escapes its grasp. Powered by a robust digital motor, it exerts unmatched suction force, effectively banishing even the most stubborn debris. Furthermore, the Gen5detect features a HEPA filtration system, making it a game-changer for allergy sufferers. It traps 99.97% of microscopic particles, providing cleaner air and a healthier living environment. The sleek, ergonomic design ensures easy maneuverability, allowing users to navigate tight spaces effortlessly. Dyson previously offered up to $100 on various Dyson corded and cordless vacuum cleaners. Hopefully, this Black Friday bring similar or better discounts. Dyson Gen5detect Absolute For those who demand nothing short of perfection in their cleaning endeavors, the Dyson Gen5detect Absolute rises to the occasion. Building upon the formidable foundation of the Gen5detect, this model comes equipped with specialized attachments that elevate its capabilities to an extraordinary degree. The package includes an array of brushes and tools, each designed to tackle specific cleaning challenges. From deep-penetrating brushes that agitate and lift embedded dirt to crevice tools that reach into tight corners, this vacuum leaves no stone unturned in its pursuit of a spotless home. During the previous sale, Wayfair.com offered buyers up to 30% discount.

My Patriot Supply is a company that thrives on making emergency food supply possible and reachable to the people in need. The brand offers canned foods, full meals, vegetables and fruits, sprouting seeds and greens, and other essential items for colonies impacted by power cuts or natural calamities. The patriot freeze food supply delivers food kits that can be stored for weeks and years (upto 25 years). Who needs a My Patriot freeze-dried food supply? When there’s a power cut due to heavy snowfall or any natural calamity, My Patriot Supply comes to the rescue. The brand takes bulk orders and offers a wide range of food supplies and essential items like power and light, first aid, water filtration, and air purifiers, and even cooking tools. What are the benefits of My Patriot freeze-dried food? Besides providing emergency food supply in the time of need, the food kits come with a long shelf life which can last for weeks and even years together. Some people even like to have such food kits handy at home in case of emergencies like curfews, pandemics, or viral outbreaks. The food kits are delivered in quality packages that can be tucked away in the freezer for future use. Does the company accept one-serve meals apart from bulk orders? One can order the short-term emergency survival food kit that offers supplements for three days or a month. The long-term emergency food supply provides food supplements that can be stored and used for a long time. Besides people with emergencies, patriot freeze food supply is also a preferred option for campers and hikers. They also offer one-serve meals and essential cooking equipment that can be used when on a hike. How can one place an order? Ordering from their website is simple and convenient. You have to create an account with essential personal details before browsing through the categories.