What Are RFID-Blocking Cards and Do I need them?

Credit card numbers are sacred. We would never give them out to strangers because credit card fraud and stolen identities are rampant problems. But what if someone could steal your credit card information just by standing next to you?

It’s possible if you carry a credit card with an embedded RFID chip. RFID credit cards let you make payments by touching the card to a scanner rather than swiping across or inserting into a terminal. They’re designed for convenience. Now imagine if someone walked up to you and “scanned” the wallet in your back pocket, or purse, without you realizing. This can be done and criminals could copy the RFID data and create a clone of your credit card -- unless your card is protected by an RFID-blocking card.

People have been concerned about RFID chips for a while, and not just with credit cards. All US passports issued after 2006 have RFID chips that track your photo and information. Metro cards have RFID chips for quick swiping, and dogs are implanted with RFID chips for tracking. RFID chips work by using radio waves to communicate. The object, such as a credit card, contains an RFID tag with information, and an RFID reader uses radio waves to read the information off that tag.

The key is that RFID chips have tiny electromagnetic fields, which is what makes it possible to read one without having to “initiate” communications. The RFID reader just needs to be close enough to get within the field. That’s why a criminal could scan a card through your pocket or purse. And yes, people in the real world have been scanned like this.

Fortunately, radio waves are relatively easy to interrupt and block, and that’s how an RFID-blocking cards work. They simply disrupt the RFID signal. If a wallet or purse is properly protected, it will block all electromagnetic fields and prevent communication between your cards and RFID scanners. These can easily and inexpensively be accomplished by using RFID-blocking cards. Why cards versus sleeves or even wallets. This is simple. Sleeves fall apart and get expensive to replace on a constant basis and wallets, well I love my current wallet that was very expensive and I don't want to spend money on a new wallet!

For me the solution is simple. RFID Blocking Cards by SmartProduct are extremely affordable and well worth the value. You get 1 pack that contains 2 card protectors and the company has an awesome deal going on right now, that runs about the price of  two Starbucks coffees. Just slip your card into a sleeve, then slip the sleeve into your wallet—and they come with a full money back 5 YEAR guarantee!

Anyway, I hope that you learned a little about RFID blocking and why you need to integrate this into your life. RFID Blocking Cards by SmartProduct are available at Amazon at 

Please note that I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn money from links.

Fireworks Injury Incidents and Safety Tips for Your Family

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) previously announced, the release of a special study regarding incidents of injuries surrounding July 4 holiday festivities. The study, conducted by CPSC staff, found that 65 percent (or 7,400) of all fireworks injuries were sustained during the 30 days surrounding the Independence Day holiday.

Shockingly, CPSC staff found that there were an estimated 11,400 people who sustained injuries related to fireworks. The 11,400 fireworks related injuries are a swift increase from precious years. More than half of these injuries were the result of unexpected ignition of the device or consumers not using fireworks as intended. Fireworks injuries most often resulted in burns to the hands and head, including the eyes, face, and ears. According to the special study, sparklers, firecrackers, and aerial devices were associated with the most incidents.

Whether it is the sparkle of the bright lights, or the thunderous boom of the explosion, there is no denying the thrill that fireworks can bring to an Independence Day celebration. Unfortunately, when consumers get their hands on professional fireworks, the results can be deadly. Last year, CPSC received reports of eight consumers who were killed by either professional-grade or homemade firework devices.

While the majority of fireworks injury reports involve emergency room treatment and release, CPSC is aware of more severe and fatal injuries that are associated with consumer use of professional-grade and homemade fireworks. Reports of faster-than-expected explosions and unpredictable flight paths of aerial devices have resulted in tragic consequences for some consumers.

In the eight reported fireworks-related deaths, the victims were killed when the illegal devices exploded, causing severe trauma to the head and face, and resulting in decapitation in one incident. In other incidents involving professional-grade or homemade devices, the victims reportedly sustained severe burns and the loss of fingers.

CPSC urges consumers to follow these safety steps:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Parents may not realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals.
• Always have an adult closely supervise fireworks activities if older children are allowed to handle devices.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Light fireworks one at a time, and then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. For more information please visit CPSC online and for consumer product related questions call the CPSC Hotline at (800) 638-2772. El CPSC estudio está disponible en español.

21 Led UV Ultraviolet Black Light Flashlight by Esco-Lite Review

This black light flashlight by Esco-Lite is a really nice one to have. I have owned others that have not had near the quality of this one. I was actually surprised by the quality given that this flashlight is compact. It takes three AAA batteries that are included so you are good to use it as soon as you receive it! It is incredibly powerful with 395nm wavelength, co I caution people to be careful not to point the light at peoples eyes. If you’re looking to find out where funky pet smells are coming from, you will absolutely find out with this flashlight. It also works incredibly well outdoors.

21 Led UV Ultraviolet Black Light Flashlight by Esco-Lite Features:

• Easily Spot Pet Stains
• Compact Yet Bright
• Battery Included

The 21 Led UV Ultraviolet Black Light Flashlight by Esco-Lite sells for $8.12 on Amazon!

Horizons Tec HT-747.2 Emergency Kit Review

This is a great set. We will start with the radio. You can charge it with the included USB cable, hand crank or use the solar panel. Once charged, it packs three emergency items into one - a flashlight, radio and portable charger. It would be great for emergencies, power outages, or hiking. As a flashlight, has an LED light on the front, with three LED bulbs, that are fairly bright. As a charger, it charged my phone just fine. As a radio, you can toggle between AM, FM and NOAA stations. It also has a small light by the display so you can see what you're doing. To toggle between them, you'll push the power button, then the Band button.

It's fairly light - just under 8oz - and small enough not to add to much bulk if you take it hiking or keep it in your glove compartment. The paracord bracelet feels sturdy and well made. The compass is easy to see, super convenient, and most importantly, it works. The knife/flint scraper had me a little nervous - it is a blade on the clasp of the bracelet, but it has a cover once the clasp is attached. The clasp itself is sturdy and opens/closes easily. It also has a whistle on the clasp that is easily accessible and works well.

Horizons Tec HT-747.2 Emergency Kit Features:

• AM/FM/NOAA Radio
• Battery Level Indicator
• Flashlight
• USB Charger
• AC Adapter
• Solar Charge
• Cell Phone Charger
• Paracord Bracelet with Compass and Cutter Included

The Horizons Tec HT-747.2 Emergency Kit lists for $48.99 and is currently on sale for $29.99 on Amazon.

Outdoor Umbrella Light by Volare-HK Review

I have an outdoor umbrella that came with lights and when I saw this, I had to have it! The Outdoor Umbrella Pole Light is so simple to install. It gives off a beautiful light and really enhances the outdoor experience. I absolutely enjoyed sitting on my deck at night with just this light giving off a soft glow. It takes four AA batteries that fit in on the back. The light opens so that it can be installed on a standard patio umbrella and has two inner springs to keep it in place.

Outdoor Umbrella Light by Volare-HK Features:

• Multi-Use – Camping, Emergencies, Night Light
• Battery Operated
• 3 Lighting Modes
• 28 LED Lights
• Adjustable To Fit Most Umbrellas
• East Installation
• One-Year Money Back Warranty

The Outdoor Umbrella Light by Volare-HK sells for $9.99 on Amazon!

Night Provision GMETAL 5 Innovative Dual Function Flash Light Review

I am in love with this Night Provision GMETAL 5 Innovative Dual Function Flash Light and it has led to a new standard of quality for the type of flashlight/torches that I will allow in my home. It really offers so much and it’s compact!

It is easy to charge via the included USB cord that also comes with an adapter so that you can charge the flashlight via an electrical outlet. The instructions are easy to understand and while some people may not think that one would need instructions for a flashlight, this one has a few unique features that you may not be able to figure out on your own.

Night Provision GMETAL 5 Innovative Dual Function Flash Light Features:

• Compact and Can Easily Fit In Your Pocket
• Hand Strap
• High (500 Lumens) and Low Brightness
• Strobe Mode For Emergencies
• Waterproof
• Rechargeable
• Cree XPE LED
• 100% Lifetime Guarantee

The Night Provision GMETAL 5 Innovative Dual Function Flash Light is such a well-designed and well-built piece of equipment that I give it 10 stars! Visit Night Provision for more information.

Car Hammer Auto Safety Emergency Kit by Real Deal Tools Review

This Car Hammer by Real Deal Tools comes in a 2-pack – one for home and one for the car. Aside from this being a great deal – one for the house and one for the car, this is incredibly easy to use. It’s lightweight and yet powerful enough to break tempered glass if needed. This also has a built in seat belt cutter and a mount.

The Car Hammer Auto Safety Emergency Kit by Real Deal Tools sells for $17.99 on Amazon!

Suaoki Camping Led Lantern Review

We all know that I’m a little wacky and have begun to stockpile these types of flashlights. No, I’m not waiting for the apocalypse! First, my family does a lot of camping and second, we lose electricity often enough that it has become a nuisance. The Suaoki Camping Led Lantern is perfect for both situations. It will also charge your smartphone!

It’s compact for portability and expands if need be. There are two light modes and you can power this baby up via USB or hand crank. I’m guessing that most people reading this can relate to being without electricity for an extended period of time. This lantern with at least shed a little light on the situation.

Suaoki Camping Led Lantern Features:

• Rechargeable
• Hand Crank
• Compact
• Available in Green or Orange
• Two Light Modes 

The Suaoki Camping Led Lantern is available for $16.99 on Amazon!