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Homes & Design / Lake Living May 2021

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~ Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC

Life on the shores in the Southern Lakes area

A special edition of Homes & Design • May 2021


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Water sports make summer even more fun. Safety should always be the utmost priority for anyone involved in such activities.

Simple safety tips for water sports STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

enthusiasts

HOMES & DESIGN

The carefree nature of spring and summer can make it easy for water sports enthusiasts to forgo lessons before trying their hands at water skiing and wakeboarding. But such lessons can teach

Learn the signals

Learn hand signals and go over them before getting in the water. The National Safety Council emphasizes the importance of basic hand signals, which can be used to help boaters communicate with the people they’re towing. Hand signals are vital because water WATER SPORTS • CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

For advertising opportunities, call (262) 728-3411 or email vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com

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EDITOR IN CHIEF: Edward Nadolski SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR: Tracy Ouellette PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heidi Schulz ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff

MAY 2021

May 2021 Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411

Take lessons

people techniques that can keep them safe on the water. Courses teach everything from how to get up and out of the water to how to properly handle a tow rope. They also can teach boaters how to navigate waters while towing skiers, tubers and wakeboarders.

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

Bodies of water like lakes, rivers and oceans often elicit fond memories of fun times spent under the sun. Safety should always be a priority when spending time on the water, especially when participating in water sports, including swimming and water skiing. According to the World Health Organization, more than 40 people die by drowning every hour of every day, which equates to around 372,000 deaths each year. Many of those deaths, the

vast majority of which occur in low- or middle-income countries, are preventable, and safety is at the core of drowning prevention. Though drowning incidents are not as prevalent in the United States and Canada as they are elsewhere in the world, the popularity of water sports in both countries underscores the importance of revisiting the various ways to stay safe when out on the water.


Must-have gear for your outdoor trips and adventures

If you’re like many Americans, your family has spent the past year discovering – or rediscovering – the joys of vacationing in the great outdoors. Nearly half of all campers either started camping for the first time in 2020 or restarted after having not camped in recent years, according to KOA’s North American Camping Report. Plus, a recent GoRVing.com study conducted by Ipsos reveals RV ownership is at a record high, with 11.2 million American households owning an RV in 2021, up 62% over a 20-year period. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or a first-time camper, being prepared to hit the road is essential. In time for the warmer months ahead, here are some tips to tackle all your excursions into the great outdoors with confidence. GEAR • CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Did you know?

Statistics from the United States Coast Guard indicate that, in 2019, 86 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents where cause of death was known were not wearing life jackets. The National Park Service reports that drowning is the top cause of visitor deaths in national parks and that nearly all of those deaths are preventable. One of the simplest ways to prevent drowning is to follow the advice of the Park Service and wear a life jacket at all times when near or in the water. This includes when wading, swimming, fishing, boating, and engaging in watersports or other water-related activities. The Park Service notes that there are three types of life jackets, but only two come in child and infant sizes. Inherently buoyant (primarily foam) life jackets and hybrid (foam and inflation) life jackets are available in child and infant sizes. The Park Service recommends both types of life jackets for swimmers and non-swimmers. People who intend to engage in water sports should know that some hybrid life jackets are designed specifically for such activities. The third type of life jacket is inflatable life jackets, which are only available in adult sizes and should never be worn by poor or nonswimmers. (METRO CREATIVE)

WATER SPORTS

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sports tend to be noisy, so nonverbal communication may be the only way boaters can communicate with the people they’re towing. Signals can be used to communicate anything from directions of turns to speed requests to the condition of the person being towed. A list of hand signals can be found at www.boaterexam. com/safety/safety-common-hand-signals.aspx.

Inspect tow lines

The NSC advises inspecting tow lines prior to beginning. Such inspections can confirm that tow lines are not caught in the propeller or wrapped around anyone before the activity begins.

Take your time

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HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LVING

MAY 2021

Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat. People being towed should always wait for propellers to stop before climbing back into the boat. It doesn’t take long for propellers to stop, and those extra few seconds can dramatically reduce risks for accidents or injuries.

Only during the day

From rugged off-roading escapades to serene nature hikes, all your outdoor activities will be much more enjoyable when you have the confidence that comes with the right gear and preparation strategies. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

Visibility is compromised once the sun goes down. That can make it hard for boaters to see any obstacles that might appear in the water, and it also makes it very difficult for them to communicate with the people they’re towing. As a result of such difficulties, the NSC urges water sports enthusiasts to only engage in such activities during daylight hours. (METRO CREATIVE)


Fun in the Sun By following a few, simple tips, watercraft riders will not only be able to take advantage of water fun but get in some healthy escape therapy, recharge their metaphorical batteries and practice social distancing to create great memories from this unforgettable summer. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

5 things you should know to ride a watercraft

Have a good understanding of your watercraft before you hit the waves. Get to know the general functions of your watercraft. It might be obvious, but spend some time on land learning the controls and functions so you can hit the water with confidence. Sea-Doo recommends you check out your operator’s guide, know your fuel level, and understand the general best operational practices so you’re good to go before heading away from shore.

Share the water

Respect everyone on the water and surroundings, and adopt a fun and safe riding style. Be mindful of signs and reminders to slow down or stay out of restricted areas. Also, keep a safe distance away from others and the shoreline. Watercraft were meant for social

Wear the right gear

A life jacket (aka Personal Flotation Device or PFD) is a no-brainer even if you know how to swim. For additional safety, Sea-Doo reminds riders to wear the tether cord connected to the ignition switch on your life jacket at all times. In the event you end up in the water that tether cuts the engine power and you can get right back on. Also, you and your passenger should always wear a wetsuit bottom in neoprene for protection. And finally, take sunglasses to increase the cool factor and for protection from the sun and the elements!

Pay attention

Leave your playground and surroundings cleaner than you found it. Protecting nature and the outdoors is what will keep watersports and recreational activities going for decades to come. Don’t throw trash in the water or surrounding areas. And respect the animals in the area – after all, it’s their home. (BPT)

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With the increase in watercraft popularity, more riders will be out on

Know your machine

distancing even before it was a thing! Finally, never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol as it puts everyone’s safety at risk.

MAY 2021

Do you need a license?

the water, and it’s important you have all the information when traveling lake-to-lake, finding your favorite river spot, or riding in the open ocean. Each state (province) has its own rules and regulations regarding licensing and proper age to operate a watercraft. Check out the Boat U.S. Foundation or Boat-Ed.com to know the regulations in your region.

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

In this new era of staycations and social distancing, there has been a heightened interest in outdoor recreational activities, especially with watersports and watercraft. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, watercraft sales are up as much as 75% compared to last year, making it one of the fastest growing activities out there. With the rise in popularity of watercraft and more boats out on the water, Sea-Doo maker BRP is offering tips to those who are ready to venture out in the open water. “The Sea-Doo life is about adventure, fun and unforgettable experiences, and that’s as important now as it has ever been,” said Annick Lauzon, Director, Global Marketing, Sea-Doo. “More and more people are discovering motorized water sports, and they’re getting to know what experienced riders have known all along: very few things in life eliminate stress like spending time on the open water. In fact, it’s hard to find anyone on a Sea-Doo who has a frown!” Here are five things Sea-Doo recommends before starting your adventure:


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HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LVING

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Successful anglers know to do their homework before heading out on the lake. Reading online fishing reports from the DNR and visiting the local tackle store are a couple of ways to stay informed. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

Catch More and Bigger Fish this year 10 tips to better fishing

produced by state departments of natural resources, and visit your local fishing tackle retailer – to get information about specific lakes, rivers and in-shore fishing areas.

Keep asking why

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

Focus on structure

MAY 2021

In a fishing magazine article, pro angler Mike Iaconelli was asked about why he loves fishing and why bass pros are so good at it. Iaconelli said he looks at fishing like solving a puzzle. When he catches a fish, he asks himself, “Why did that happen?” so he can learn from it and keep catching more. Have you ever noticed when you go to a party how everyone hangs around the FISH • CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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In other words, there can be a lot of luck in fishing. On the other hand, if you want If you’re among the 50 million to consistently catch more fish and bigger Americans who plan to wet a line this year, fish more often (create your own “luck”), there’s no doubt that as you wait to feel you can set yourself up for greater success that familiar tug at the end of your fishing if you embrace some of these important line this summer, you’ll ask yourself, habits offered by the fishing folks at “How can I catch more fish and bigger Rapala: fish?” Ever since people started to enjoy sport Go to where the fish are fishing, they’ve been asking that question. Many lakes, reservoirs, ponds and It’s a question some of the most recognized rivers hold fish, but there are some bodies names in fishing are often asked – anglers of water where the conditions seem to such as Al Lindner, Tony Roach, Mike produce an outsized number of fish or Iaconelli, Ott DeFoe and Jacob Wheeler. trophy-size fish. With thousands of places to fish and For example, professional bass fishing thousands of fishing lures that one can use tournaments tend to be conducted on to catch fish, where do you even start? big bodies of water that are known for Anyone who’s put time on the water their big numbers. Before you head out, knows that the big one isn’t always caught do your homework – go online and read by the most experienced angler in the boat. fishing reports, study lake and river reports


FISH

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island in the kitchen? Fish are no different, and Jacob Wheeler rely on needle sharp really – they like to hover around rocks hooks to win major bass tournaments. and reefs, hang around dock and pier posts, Replace your fishing line and hide in weed beds. Your fishing line is the only thing Keep your lure in the water between you and landing the fish of your It’s pretty simple, if you want to catch dreams, so don’t take a chance. Make more fish, you simply need to spend more sure to check your line regularly for nicks time fishing and keeping your lure in the and abrasions, according to the experts at water. Sufix fishing line, and get into the habit of replacing your fishing line every year if Big healthy fish can’t you fish frequently.

resist a wounded fish

Big fish are looking for the easiest meal. That’s why they zero in on wounded fish. One of the most effective lures ever created is the Original Floating Rapala, a lure created with natural balsa wood that recreates the wobbling motion of a wounded bait fish better than any other lure in the world. It’s why, according to the International Game Fish Association, more world record fish have been caught with a Rapala than any other lure.

Rely on needle sharp hooks

Many fish have hard mouths so you need to use a hook that will hold on when a fish bites down on your bait, according to VMC, whose hooks are used by anglers worldwide. Fishing pros like Ott DeFoe

Big fish, big lures

In general, big fish are kind of lazy. They want to eat as much as they can while spending the least amount of energy getting their food. It’s kind of like hanging out on the couch all day and having a fully stocked fridge within just a short reach. So, when you’re going after bigger fish, try using bigger lures.

Have fun catching anything

One of the greatest joys of fishing, whether it’s freshwater or saltwater, is that sometimes, you never know what’s going to bite. If you can appreciate every catch, including those less-than-desirable species, you’re guaranteed to have a great time on the water every time. If that fits your idea of fishin’ fun, Rapala has identified an assortment of catch anything lures that will catch virtually any type of fish on any type of water. If you want to learn more about catching more and bigger fish, consider visiting the blog on Rapala.com, which is chock full of information. (BPT)

Practice catch and release

To get bigger fish, anglers need to practice catch and release. That means when you catch a fish, quickly release it back into the water where it can grow bigger. If you want to make a meal, follow local fishing regulations and harvest only what you need.

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Anglers know that fishing in a pond or lake setting requires a small fishing boat when out on the water. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

How to reel in the right boat for successful pond and lake fishing. Here’s how:

Comfort

MAY 2021

Nothing spoils a day of fishing faster than a stiff back or sore bottom from Maneuverability sitting on an uncomfortable boat bench. The Twin Troller carries two electric The Twin Troller features an elevated and motors that are recessed within the boat’s padded seat so you focus on fishing. hull, eliminating the risk of a motor getting “Freedom Electric Marine is dedicated damaged on rocks or tangled in branches, to providing a one-of-a-kind experience weeds or other debris in shallow water. The for small water fishing enthusiasts through in-hull propulsion allows quiet operation, our high-performance Twin Troller boats,” shallow draft, and a 360-degree turning says founder Frank Jones. radius. In addition, foot pedal controls allow Angier, North Carolina-based Freedom for a completely hands-free navigation Electric Marine was founded in 2007 experience, with no paddling required. by Jones, an avid fisherman who saw a niche in the market for a small electric Safety motorcraft and assembled a team to The Twin Troller is lightweight and help create one. The Twin Troller is easy to handle. The flat-bottom design manufactured in Madison, Indiana, and and strong sides offer maximum stability, ships to all 50 states. without the tipping risk associated with jon For more information about optimizing boats, canoes, or kayaks, and anglers of all your small water fishing experience, visit ages and flexibility levels can step in and freedomelectricmarine.com. (NEWSUSA) out easily.

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

As the approach of warmer weather draws more COVID-19-weary people outside, the allure of being in nature and out on the water is inspiring a boom in the fishing boat business. Regular fishermen and novices are eager to get out and enjoy the challenge and contemplation that comes with pond and lake fishing. But, this type of fishing presents some barriers. To really go where the fish are in a pond or lake setting, a small fishing boat is essential, and the right boat can get you on your way to a wonderful, “one with nature,” experience. Many current boat styles used for lake and pond fishing have certain disadvantages. Motors can get caught in vegetation, and deeper draft boats can’t navigate shallow coves. The Twin Troller, however, is an innovative small water fishing craft distinct from other boats on the market because it’s designed specifically to address the criteria

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New pool flotation technology inflates three times faster. From road trips to pool excursions, summer fun awaits, and with the right mindset and the best tools and gear, you can save time and energy on plans and prep. SUBMITTED PHOTO Lake Living

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HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LVING

MAY 2021

Hacks to make more time for fun this summer Even relaxation and fun take some preparation. But there’s no reason to work harder than you need to. Follow these hacks to get to the good stuff faster this summer.

Optimized travel Traveling by car this summer? Road navigation apps like Waze combine GPS and real-time crowd-sourced information to help you find the best route based on traffic conditions. But remember, sometimes the journey is also an opportunity for fun and there are apps for people who embrace that mindset. RoadTrippers, for example, can help you make the most of the mileage, as it offers

information about scenic detours, local attractions and more.

Waterside fun Whether you’re hanging out poolside, lakeside or at the beach, faster, smarter set-up means there will be more time to unwind. Luckily, there is a brand new pool flotation technology designed to help you get out on the water faster. Check out Swimways Spring Floats, an ultra-comfortable collection of foldable, portable fabric-covered floats that now have three times faster inflation and deflation with no pump needed. Their exclusive, patent-pending Hyper-

Flate Valve Technology is engineered to increase airflow in while preventing airflow out to take the stress and struggle out of setting up your float.

Summer meals When cooking is accompanied by fresh air and the sounds of nature, it will feel less like a chore and more like leisure. So don’t wait for holidays and special occasions to enjoy your backyard grill. You don’t even need to wait until the weekend. Select one day a week to do all your indoor meal prep. Then, make the most of summer evenings by grilling and dining outdoors all week long. (STATEPOINT)


With a few stylish upgrades, you can get your patio in tip-top shape for summer and really enjoy your outside space.

Get your patio ready for STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

Summer Living

It’s time to extend your home’s living spaces to the outdoors. To get your patio prepped for a summer of relaxation and fun, consider the following décor ideas and inspiration:

The entryway

Exterior decorating

Beauty inspired by nature

(STATEPOINT)

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These days, manufactured stone is not just for the side of your home. The possibilities for using it in and around the patio are endless. Add drama to a boundary wall between the patio and yard; beautify your outdoor kitchen’s grill unit, pizza oven, table or island; and enhance seating around the fire pit or fireplace and the bases of pergolas or columns. Just be sure to select products that look like authentic stone even upon careful inspection, and are designed to withstand the elements. For example, the choices available from ProVia are artfully crafted to produce a realistic, dramatic effect, mimicking stones from unique geographic regions in a range of cuts. Unlike other options on the market, their colors permeate throughout the entire stone, giving every manufactured stone a realistic look with hues that last for years. To learn more, visit provia.com/stone.

MAY 2021

Boost comfort and ambiance by applying the same attention to detail when decorating your patio as you would indoors. Beyond furniture that’s comfortable enough to lounge on all day or evening, incorporate throws, pillows and even rugs. Add splashes of color and vibrancy by hanging outdoor wall art, or, if you’re feeling extra creative, painting a mural. Paper lanterns hung above your patio dining area can bring a touch of romance to meals enjoyed outdoors. And get inspired by the nature around you by ensuring your patio features greenery. Potted and hanging plants or even ivy, jasmine or roses grown against a wall or

all good choices.

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

Your patio will be more enticing if you have beautiful sliding glass patio doors leading to it. If you do go in for this upgrade, it’s important to know that patio doors can be customized in a number of ways that affect their look and function. To help you make sense of your options, shop with manufacturers that offer visualizer tools, such as the one available at ProVia, provia.com/app. This can help you see what colors and hardware look best in your home and find the combination you like best. Their Aeris wood and vinyl sliding doors, for example, offer many customization opportunities, including wood stain finishes, interior and exterior colors; options for internal grids and internal blinds; and a wide array of decorative glass, privacy glass and tinted

glass options. Beyond beauty, be sure to prioritize high performance, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency, storm protection, and of course, smooth, easy and quiet operation. After all, it’s hard to feel relaxed if simply getting outdoors is a struggle.


A night around the fire pit is a summertime tradition in many households. Safety must be as much a part of such traditions as s’mores. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

The do’s and don’ts of fire pits

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Many homeowners relish any opportunity to retreat to their back yards, where they can put up their feet and relax in the great outdoors. That retreat-like escape is made even more relaxing when sitting around a fire pit. Fire pits can be found in millions of suburban backyards across the globe. Fire pits have become so popular that a 2016 survey of landscape architects conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects revealed they were the most sought after outdoor design element. Fire pits remain wildly popular a half decade after that survey. Homeowners who are only now joining the fire pit revolution can keep these dos and don’ts in mind as they plan their summer s’mores sessions. DO keep the fire pit a safe distance away from the home. Fire pits should be located a safe distance from the home at all times, but especially when they’re in use. Home design experts recommend keeping fire pits a minimum of 10 to 20 feet away from a house or other structure, such as a shed or a detached garage. The further away the fire is from houses and other structures, the less likely those structures are to catch on fire. DON’T place the fire pit beneath trees or next to shrubs. Though fire pits should be kept safe distances away from a house and other structures, it’s important that they’re not placed beneath trees or next to shrubs. Shrubs and low hanging branches can easily catch embers and be lit ablaze, so make sure fire pits are not placed in locations that increase that risk. DO clean out seasonal debris. It can be tempting to let seasonal debris resting inside the fire pit burn away during the season’s first s’mores session. But burning debris poses a serious safety risk, as embers can easily be blown out of the fire pit and catch nearby trees or shrubs or even a home on fire. The National Fire Protection Association advises homeowners that embers blowing from a backyard fire pose the same threat to homes as if they are from a wildfire.

FIRE PITS • CONTINUED ON PAGE 14


Soaking up the great outdoors Hot tubs are coveted home amenities. When adding a hot tub to a property, homeowners should ensure safety guidelines are followed at all times. STOCK PHOTO Lake Living

Hot tub safety guidelines

Be especially careful with children

Children may want to enjoy the hot tub along with their parents and other adults. While neither the American Association of

Exercise caution

Adults and children alike should be aware of the hazards of drowning. It is possible to drown in a hot tub, even though it’s not as deep as a pool. Prevent access to the hot tub when it is unsupervised. Exercise caution when entering a hot tub while taking medications that cause drowsiness or while under the influence of alcohol. (METRO CREATIVE)

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Hot tub water must be kept sanitary through testing and a careful balance of

If you have a health condition or are pregnant, consult with a health care provider to determine if it is safe to use a hot tub. Individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure or diabetes should not enter a spa without a doctor’s approval. In addition, do not enter the water if you have an infection, open wound or illness. Wait until you are symptom-free for 48 hours, suggests the Canada-based company RnR Hot Tubs and Spas.

MAY 2021

Maintain cleanliness

Be health smart

Pediatrics nor the Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued hot tub guidelines for youth, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that children under the age of 5 not use hot tubs. If children do want to use the hot tub, consider dialing back the water temperature, as high temperatures can lead to heat stroke and loss of consciousness in young people, according to the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance. The PHTA recommends turning the thermostat down to 98 F and limiting children to five minutes at a time in the water. Play should never exceed 15 minutes.

HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING

Backyards have long since transformed from places to grill a few burgers and play with the dog to homeowners’ private sanctuaries. Pools and spas can help turn backyards into the oases modern homeowners crave. Soaking in a hot tub can ease aches and pains and help people overcome stress. According to the health and wellness resource Healthline, a 2012 study examined the effects of hydrotherapy on sleep quality and physical function for people with fibromyalgia. Hydrotherapy was shown to improve sleep quality along with other fibromyalgia symptoms. Hot tubs also may relieve pain by relaxing tense muscles, tendons and joints. Hot tubs can prolong the outdoor entertaining season by serving as heated retreats when the weather turns chilly. Whenever hot tubs are in use, certain safety protocols should be followed.

chemicals that will inhibit the spread of bacteria and other microorganisms, indicates Valley Pool & Spa, which has locations across Pennsylvania. Those new to spa maintenance should consult with a spa expert on how often to test water. Inquire about which products can help to maintain peak sanitation.


GEAR

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Drinkable water

For obvious reasons, ensuring you have a surplus of drinkable water for the duration of your trip needs to be a top priority. As you plan, take a cue from experts in preparedness, the U.S. Armed Forces, and put Scepter Military Water Cans on your “must-have” list of gear. Standard issue to the U.S. and Canadian Armed Forces, these easy-to-carry, virtually indestructible containers are up to the task of camping trips, sports expeditions, boating and more. They’re also BPA-free to keep chemicals, odors and tastes out of your water, as well as corrosion- and fungus-resistant, so your drinking water is clean and safe. A quick-pour option makes it possible to empty up to 5 gallons of water in under seven seconds through the 4-inch wide cap opening. Or, you can set up the container for practical personal use at your campsite conveniently, thanks to an optional dispenser spout for when you need to fill cups or bottles.

Hassle-free refuels

Making the best use of your supplies and avoiding waste is key to successful adventures, especially when you’re far from creature comforts. However, fuel containers can be heavy and often bulky to use, increasing the likelihood of spills. Having a comfortable and convenient way of refueling sporting equipment, recreation vehicles and other gear can make your travel prep and on-the-go fill-ups clean, fast and hassle-free. Check out durable, easy-to-manage fuel storage options, like those from Scepter SmartControl. The line-up is available in 1-, 2- and 5-gallon sizes for gasoline, diesel and kerosene, and come in different shapes and with different handle options to fit the application, for controllable flow and no-mess usage. (STATEPOINT)

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FOR RENT Twin Lakes Apartments 2 BEDROOM LAKEFRONT, Deck, Beach & pier. 18 min. to 120/31. $895 mo. + sec. 847-826-0987. ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENT For those 62+ or disabled of any age. Available now in Twin Lakes! Elevator and laundry in building! Call 262-877-2212. Equal opportunity provider and employer. Equal Housing Opportunity.

FIRE PITS

271 S. Broad Street, Lake Geneva, WI www.athomelg.com 262-248-3688 394169

Visit Our Newly remOdeled shOwrOOm with OVer 50 wOrkiNg Fixtures 65+ years of experience in your neighborhood!

Complete Bathroom Remodeling

117 MacArthur Dr., Mukwonago, WI • 262-363-7146 www.martensplumbing.com

390428

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HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LVING

MAY 2021

We want you to love your home!

Houses/Town/ Condos 2BR, 1BA HOME in Wind Lake on the lake. $1,500. mo + sec. text only. 414-828-4886. DELAVAN 2 BR + DEN CONDO Vaulted ceilings, 1200 sq. ft. Garage, pool, washer & dryer. $895 mo. 262-203-6552. ROOM FOR RENT/LONG LAKE Private, full bath in room, very quiet. $550 mo. 708-305-9003

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

DON’T let fire pits burn near flammable materials. Store firewood piles a safe distance away from the fire pit while it’s in operation. It may be convenient to keep firewood right next to the fire pit while the fire is burning, but that increases the risk that embers will land on firewood and start a fire outside of the pit. DO check the weather report prior to starting the fire. Windy weather increases the risk of embers blowing around and potentially landing on the house, other structures around the property or trees. If the weather report is calling for gusting winds, burn a fire on another night. DON’T leave a fire pit

fire burning. Unattended recreational fires are illegal and incredibly dangerous. Homeowners should never leave fire pit fires burning unattended or allow fires to slowly die out overnight. Always extinguish the fire before going inside and stop adding wood to the fire roughly one hour before you plan to go inside. Water or sand can be poured on ashes to extinguish the fire. Once homeowners are confident a fire has been extinguished, ashes can be spread around to ensure there are no hot spots still burning. If there are, start the extinguishing process over again. (METRO CREATIVE)


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HOMES & DESIGN • LAKE LIVING MAY 2021 Page 15 392345


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Smart Home Showroom

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