Latest Articles by kenmac

Pre trade show marketing is absolutely essential

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500

When planning your pre trade show marketing there are multiple ways to communicate with your target market.

Some methods of communication are much more effective, appropriate and cost efficient than others. As always, your budget will dictate how many touch points you can have with your target market. Also keep in mind that you should be trying to find ways to drive the right people to your exhibit at the lowest cost per qualified lead.

Remember, you need to let your prospects know where your booth is located on the showroom floor. Use tag lines such as “see us at Booth 1635 at the such and such Trade Show” in news releases and other communications such as direct mail leading up to the show.

Don’t make your customers and prospects hunt you down.

Recent research has shown that 83% of the most successful companies at a range of exhibitions (in terms of business generated and leads collected) were the ones that took the trouble to undertake pre trade show marketing such as mailing their prospects and customers before the show. (Source:CEIR - (Center for Exhibition Industry Research)

You can increase your ROI by integrating various pre trade show marketing tools to direct qualified buyers to your expensive booth. Diversity in your pre trade show marketing strategy will yield greater results and you will record a much higher success rate, with increases in both target visitor attraction and sales lead conversion.

Please do not take a one-dimensional approach to your pre trade show marketing, as you will not get the desired results from the trade show.

Trade show promotions are designed to engage your potential customers through a personalized, multi-step marketing strategy that facilitates your ability to reach your trade show objectives.

This includes pre-selling attendees through phone calls, personalized invitations, direct mail or email, to introduce your products and encourage them to visit your booth.

By knowing your target audience, you should target prospective trade show buyers for your products and/or services, prior to the trade show commencing, by creating a positive image and brand awareness.

To maximize your trade show effort tailor your messages to the concerns, needs and interests of your prospects.

Take the time to really determine your target audience! It’s very important.

And, don’t underestimate the power of a pre trade show marketing campaign. An effective pre trade show marketing promotion can deliver increases of 50% in conversions to qualified leads.

Always build a portfolio of activity that will drive the lowest cost per qualified lead and map out your timeline so that you give reasonable notice to your prospects.

It’s always a good idea to segment your list for better results and have a contextually relevant and compelling offer.

You will want to come back to it at a later point when it is time to prove your ROI so keep tabs on what your pre-show marketing tactics are costing you.

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Ken MacKenzie is a former Senior Consultant with International Public Relations and Marketing Manager with a U.S. Trade Center. He is the author of “The Trade Show Edge”. For additional information on pre trade show marketing techniques, please visit: The Trade Show Edge – trade show marketing is your key to extra profits

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Mobile computer carts for when space is a problem

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0600

For a busy home office, finding adequate space for your computer sometimes presents a problem, particularly if you have a growing family.

However, you're usually able to overcome this problem with a mobile computer cart as they're compact, small and will fit into almost any room. Mobile computer carts provide a way to move and relocate your computer when needed. If you need to work in a certain area, you can move the computer cart easily on its wheels for optimal space.

In addition, being mobile, your computer equipment and its wires out of the way when not in use.

The fact that a mobile computer cart can easily be pushed around means you're able to easily change the position of your computer cart thereby rearranging the layout of your home office. For example, you may want to move it closer to a window for more light or nearer to a heater when it's cold, etc.

There's plenty of room for your monitor, CPU, keyboard and printer and in some cases they have hutches for extra storage with adjustable shelves.

A height adjustable work surface, pullout mouse and keyboard trays are sometimes available as well as integrated cord management bins and in some instances surge protection.

Some mobile computer carts let you work from your favorite chair or even from bed and you can work without neck pain, backaches and eye strain associated with trying to prop your laptop for instance and your papers.

These days there's a wide range of mobile computer carts available in many different materials and styles that will bring space efficiency and contemporary design to your home office.

Shopping online allows you to quickly and simply compare different kinds of Mobile Computer Carts in various price ranges, which will enable you to find one that fits in with your décor.

Home office furniture should be chosen carefully as it involves balancing the aesthetic value and optimum utilization of space. In no way should the furniture appear cramped up or forcibly accommodated. Also one should keep in mind that placement should facilitate easy cleaning of the both the furniture and the surrounding area. That's why a mobile computer cart should be considered if space is a problem for you.

When choosing a mobile cart you must ensure a comfortable working posture for the users so that they are able to use the computer with ease and with less of stress to: eyes, hands, legs, back etc. A well-designed computer cart improves the productivity of the user and reduces chances of injuries.

The main benefit of the computer cart is you do not have to interfere with your actual computer while relocating the cart. There's a wide variety and styles of carts and computer desks. Glass computer carts have a great clean modern look, while still very practical. Consider a mobile computer cart for the space conscience worker in your home office.

Plus there's a broad selection of affordable mobile computer carts available online that are both ergonomic and stylish.

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For additional information, tips and various online retailers of home office desks, including computer desks, corner desks, computer armoires, L shaped desks, desks with hutches, mobile computer carts

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Why you should have a home safe

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0600

No one wants to be a victim of identity theft, flood or fire. However, it's comforting to know that if a disaster should strike then a good home safe will provide unsurpassed protection from fire and water damage as well as theft protection thereby safeguarding important documents and precious family mementos.

It's just smart business practice to ensure that your files and valuables are safe from thieves and prying eyes as well as being the law in some cases.

If you have documents and valuables that need to be kept under lock and key by way of a home office security system, then a simple desk lock just won't do the trick.

Valuables, money and other items that you simply don't want to risk losing or having stolen can go into Home safes

Professionals that require secured filing systems and a first class home office security system include those who handle medical records, lawyers, doctors or anyone that comes in contact with personnel files with sensitive information.

Keeping files of this nature secured and off-limits to those who don't have a bona fide reason to peruse them is not only common courtesy, in some cases it's the law.

You'll never be able to protect against every eventuality. However, it's a good idea to take reasonable measures particularly when it comes to client confidentiality and/or valuables. Make sure you've doing the right thing by a smart purchase in a home safe. It will go a long way towards making sure you've done your part to keep things secure.

So, what are some of the other reasons for purchasing a home safe?

One of the main reasons for having a home safe these days is to ensure that your electronic data is just as safe as your hard copy documents. This is becoming even more important in this information age.

A home safe can store and protect your CDs, DVDs, USB ports; flash and hard drives from theft, fire and water damage. You should definitely no ignore your digital assets. In fact, make sure they receive the same protection as your other valuables-back up often and then entrust your media storage to a safe.

In addition, it's worth remembering that water damage usually happens fast and furious and when you least expect it. That's why you need to make sure those things that are important to you remain safe and dry!

Of course, when you have a home fire it can strike swiftly and the aftermath can be devastating. It's critical that your important documents, electronic data, memories and valuables are secure in a home safe too.

Home burglary is just another reason as to why you should have a home safe. The majority of home burglaries involve forcible entry and burglars target homes more often than non-residential structures.

Lastly, there's identity theft which remains the number one concern among consumers so don't take the risk. Consider keeping such items as social security cards, credit cards, passports, insurance information, financial records, tax information, birth certificates, mortgage statements, business documents, family heirlooms, collectibles and memorabilia all locked up in your home safe.

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For further information on home safes, Sentry safes, online safe retailers and home offices in general please visit:

http://homeofficedesktips.com/Home-safes-and-office-security.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

The stylish, yet discreet Computer Armoire

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0600

A computer armoire is perfect for the home office, as you can discreetly create a mini-office in any location within your home.

They're stylish for living spaces and beautifully organised with Interiors that are fitted for all the necessities including keyboards and CPUs with backside hook-up slots.

In many there's plenty of shelving that will hold your printer, scanner, and other peripherals.

A home office can be built around this single incredibly efficient and wonderfully attractive bit of home decor.
Computer armoires are both affordable and attractive and come in a range of colours these days. You will find exquisite wood finishes and they are available in many different contemporary styles.

These days, online home office desk retailers offer many different name brands and you should note that, in addition to adding to the décor of your home, a computer armoire is also an investment. Some are expensive, but you can purchase a modern computer armoire for as little as five hundred dollars. If you consider the many functions of an armoire, their price tags are more than justified.

The work surface in many, such as a writing area or computer keyboard tray, is adjustable to provide an ergonomically sound working environment. Some computer armoire desks have a fixed work surface, which stays in place when the doors are closed, and moves only for ergonomic adjustments. Other computer armoire desks have an easily movable, often hinged, work surface which must be cleared of documents and other items in order to close the doors.

Computer armoire desks are normally very practical pieces of furniture, despite the use of rich veneers and complex exterior styling in some of the costlier models.

The cabinet is closed by two to four doors, to keep out dust and to give a tidy appearance to a room by hiding the cluttered working surface of the desk. It looks like a cabinet and with a computer armoire you can transform a room very quickly just by closing its doors.

Computer armoires are not only valued for their striking appearance, but are also popular because they provide various shelves, nooks and crannies that can be used for storage in a tight space. At the same time this large piece of furniture adapts well to tall ceilings found in new houses.

A corner computer armoire can easily fit into a family room or a bedroom without disturbing the appearance of the room.

Computer armoires come in many different styles and sizes and go a long way in maintaining the stylish appearance of your home. Finding an armoire that blends in with your décor should be easy.

If you are looking for a great way to organize your workspace, a computer armoire is a good investment. If you don't have a separate room to set up a home office then a computer armoire or armoire office desk may be just the thing you need. They are intended for many years of use.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Setting up a home office when having a family !

Sat, 04 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Nothing is sacred to little children !

So, how do you set up a home office that will meet your professional requirements, but still stand up to the ordeals of a home with children ?

Well, there’s no easy answer, but the following tips may help you.

First of all, here’s some home office furniture tips you may want to consider.

You should only pick a desk that has rounded edges as well as sturdy drawers that can be locked; particularly since there will be documents that children should not get into. It doesn't matter whether your home office desk is in the corner of a room or has its own room; please don't think that your home office will be "off limits" actually working, especially if you have small, curious children.

The same can be said for filing cabinets. Even more so, as heavy cabinet drawers can be pulled out and actually crush a small child, so ensure you have locks that work, or have latches that are difficult to open.

Again, make absolutely certain that your business computer is kept where little children can't get into it. Lock it away into an armoire desk or perhaps even consider locking up your office at night.

Another wise investment is a solid home office chair that youngsters would have a difficult time tumbling over. My advice is to be wary of regular office chairs as kids love chairs that spin -it's a simple fact. However, you'll be very angry if they go round and round and you find they actually stop after knocking your coffee over a stack of important papers !

As you go about building your own home office don't forget that childproofing your office is important. But expect a problem from time to time and be proactive by keeping items they shouldn’t' touch out of sight - and mind!

Probably the two most important pieces of home office furniture you will purchase will be your home office desk and chair.

These days there is are a variety of different types of home office desks, chairs and other home office accessories available on the market.
Whether you are looking for a Computer Armoire to help conserve space, a Corner Desk to maximize space, a Computer Desk, or a U-Shaped Desk to spread out on, there's a variety of styles and finishes available online that will suit your needs and décor.

For example, a computer armoire is an elegant looking large cabinet that has a desk that holds a computer and its peripherals. If you don't have a separate room to set up a home office then a computer armoire may be just the thing you need. You can create a mini office in practically any location in your home with a computer armoire.

Then there’s the home office corner desk, which makes great use of space. The computer desk with hutches will also provide the extra space you need for home office supplies.

L shaped desks give you plenty of work surface and sometimes accommodate a guest on the other side of the desk as well. On offer these days are numerous executive U shape desks and peninsula desks for your home office.

There's also a broad selection of affordable mobile computer carts available online that are both ergonomic and stylish.

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For additional information on home office desks, including computer desks, corner desks, computer armoires, L shaped desks, desks with hutches, computer carts and U shaped desks, please visit: Home Office Desk Tips

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Emergency shower and eye wash stations are required in today's workplaces !

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Every business should do an audit of their workplace and look for signs of any dangerous hazardous materials so as to ensure that their employees are provided with safe and healthful working conditions.

In fact, under the law, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use where any person is exposed to injurious corrosive materials.

On the spot decontamination is provided by an emergency shower and eye wash station, which allows personnel to flush away any hazardous substances that can cause injury. Splashing accidents must be followed by prompt and effective action with the affected part being flushed for a minimum of 15 minutes. Using a clean supply of flushing fluid under low-pressure emergency shower and eye wash stations are covered by specific guidelines laid down by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

For example, ANSI Z358.1 1998 revision had a general requirement that flushing fluid be "tepid". At the time, the word “tepid” was a bit vague which led to individual interpretations of the term.

However, in its 2004 revision of the Standard, ANSI clarified the definition of the word “tepid” " to be in the range of 60 degrees F to below 100 degrees F. At immediate start-up of the equipment, the output flushing fluid must be within that range and remain there throughout the full 15-minute use cycle. Generally, temperatures higher than 100 degrees F may cause chemical interactions with the skin and result in further damage. At 60 degrees F and below hypothermia becomes a concern.

It is important to realise that this very specific requirement is now in place. If compliance is delayed you may have fines levied by the Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (OSHA) for non-compliance to ANSI and other standards. It's possible that these fines could be substantial.

Not only that, it’s also possible that the temperature range requirement could result in a case of negligence in a lawsuit filed by an injured employee. For example, if the emergency shower water was too cold. The employee may be unable to stand under the shower for the full-required period, which resulted in the employee receiving a greater injury.
Deluge showers should be used in all chemical and cryogenic handling areas, in battery rooms and in all situations where clothing, fires or impingement burns may occur.

The emergency safety shower and/or emergency eyewash station must be installed within 10 seconds walking time from the location of a hazard.
The safety shower equipment must be installed on the same level as the hazard and accessing the emergency eyewash and/or emergency shower equipment should NOT require going up or down stairs or ramps. The path of travel from the hazard to the equipment should be free of obstructions and as straight as possible. Remember, doors are a concern and may hinder a user accessing safety shower emergency equipment.

Of course, there are circumstances where these guidelines may not be adequate such as where workers are handling particularly strong acids, caustics or other materials where the consequences of a spill would be very serious.

In these cases, emergency eyewash and/or emergency shower equipment should be installed immediately adjacent to the hazard.

You should review the entire ANSI Z358.1 2004 Standard in detail. It's very important to plan ahead, because in an emergency every second counts !

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For additional information on workplace hazards and emergency shower and eye wash equipment, please visit: Emergency Shower and Eye Wash Stations

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Be smart when undertaking that remodeling project !

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Here’s some good advice. Before you rush head long into a home remodeling job and picking the first remodeling contractor you find:

Get three quotes !

In fact, large corporations do it all the time, as do Governments.

Getting three quotes is smart for a number of good reasons.

It doesn’t matter whether you're building an addition to your home or you want a large remodeling job done, or even a new shower installed, it just makes sense to obtain quotes from building contractors or any home improvement and a Remodeling Contractor.

Checking out the different companies in the process just makes sense.

While you’re waiting for the quotations, check into the different companies. For example, make sure that their licensing and insurance are in order. You should check into their backgrounds and, if at all possible, ask for references. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure no major complaints have been filed against any of the companies you're looking at.

If you want to check out a repairing building contractor’s ability to get the job done on time, for the right price and have quality work done, then one of the best ways to glean information is to talk to past customers. A good repairing building contractor won’t have any problem with providing references giving you the names of customers to speak to.

If they’re not willing to do this, be very wary. In fact, our advice is to stay away, unless the building contractor's so new in the field references aren't possible, but other background checks are.

If you're concerned the customers you're been given to speak to are those who are pre-programmed to say only good things, speak with other customers when you're in the repairing building contractor's office. When you receive the quotations you should read them over carefully. A good written estimate should include a basic materials list, their costs as well as labor cost. An extensive quote will also include a list of what can be expected, i.e., a detailed outline of the job's schedule and materials.

Take your time to make a decision. It deserves careful consideration. Choose the Repairing Building Contractor when you’re ready and after you’ve checked them out.

And this is important......

Remember while the lowest bid might be the best one financially, if the remodeling contractor doesn't check out on all other points, it's not the best bid. Compare pricing estimates and other factors before choosing.

No matter the size of the job, a construction project on your home is a big deal. The finished work is meant to make your home nicer, bigger or more liveable. Treat every step of the process with care and take a tip from government and other businesses by checking everything out before moving forward.

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For additional information on remodeling your home and avoiding building, remodeling and equity loan pitfalls, please visit: Remodeling your home

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Find that Perfect Plus Size Wedding Dress !

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0500

It can sometimes be a very frustrating experience for a full figured woman to find that perfect Plus Size Wedding Dress. However, before even looking for a wedding dress, it's essential that you know where both your wedding and reception is to take place.

For example, if you are thinking of exchanging vows on a beach you will probably want an Informal Wedding Dress. Then again, if the wedding is to take place in a church or temple, a formal wedding dress will more than likely be required. So, once you've decided on your wedding and reception venues, there are two more questions that most brides-to-be tend to ask:"What style of wedding dress do I want and where do I get it?"When looking for a wedding dress these two questions are the most common facing full figured brides.

Always remember that you should shop for a plus size wedding dress that fits your personality and flatters your curves, as well as being suitable for your wedding and reception venues. However, don't despair! These days there's a fantastic selection of affordable wedding dresses available that have shape, color, style and flair. You could first start with some of the larger retail chains, as they are more likely to have dresses you can try on. You can also look at department stores, designers and our online stores who specialize in Plus Size Wedding Dresses If you're considering obtaining your wedding dress through a bridal store then you should ensure that the store has been in business a considerable time and that its reputation is sound. It's a plus if the storeowner has been around for a long time. Ask around and visit several stores before making any decision.

However, these days there's also a terrific range of wedding dresses you can purchase online. Many wedding dress manufacturers have turned to the Internet thereby allowing the bride-to-be and her bridesmaids to search for that 'just right' wedding day 'look' and 'feel'.One of the most important pieces of attire, besides your own wedding dress, is the bridesmaids' dresses. They are direct reflection on yourself and if the bridesmaids look inappropriate everyone will wonder why you chose such unappealing dresses.

Of course, the mother of the bride is important and she wants to look fabulous as well. So, mother of the bride suits and dresses are now available online. In fact, it can be quite stressful when you try to co-ordinate the mother of the bride dress with the other outfits being worn on the day so it's suggested you check out all the various styles and colors now available on the web.When online, you can click on a dress you like and enlarge it for a better view. Some websites also have the capability of enabling you to see a front, side and back views.

There's also advice on how to measure yourself and, ordering a plus size wedding dress is very easy.Of course, not every bride can afford an expensive wedding dress due to a low budget or other financial constraints. This doesn't mean that they can't still look fabulous as there is an increasing number of high quality, but relatively cheap wedding dresses available online.You deserve to look wonderful on your wedding day and turning to the Internet could be one of your smartest moves.

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For additional information and tips on finding plus size wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses and mother of the brides dresses, please visit: Plus Size Wedding Dress Tips and Planner

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Australia Exotic Vacation Islands

Sun, 25 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0500

There's no doubt about it. You've not experienced the world until you've seen the wonders of Australia.

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to swim in crystal clear water, sit under a palm tree while sipping on some exotic drink or laze about beside a pool on a balmy night ? If you have, then Australia's exotic islands are for you. They're just irresistible !

However, it's a big country consisting of some 8,000 islands, including the island State of Tasmania.

Australia's island resorts and exotic island getaways offer a richly rewarding experience and are great romantic places for that exotic vacation. Some of the best honeymoon places in the world can be found on Australia's islands with resorts situated on islands ranging from small coral ones, where you can walk on the beach to the Great Barrier Reef, to an island made of pure sand - the World Heritage listed Fraser Island.

The Great Barrier Reef, off Australia's east coast, is one of the wonders of the natural world. It is World Heritage listed and is one of Australia's, and the world's, premier holiday destinations. The combination of glorious weather, pristine rainforest, white sandy beaches, and an ocean varying in hue from blue to turquoise to green, ensures it's where the world wants to go to lie on the beach, swim, surf, snorkel, sail, bushwalk and bird watch.
When it comes to exotic vacation spots, Queensland boasts an inviting array of easily accessible islands, where you'll find unspoilt beaches, rainforest and superb resorts. Queensland's islands offer a unique holiday experience and with resorts in the Tropical North, Whitsundays and Southern Queensland, the hardest decision is to choose your perfect exotic vacation spot.

If you're travelling to Sydney, why not get on another plane ? It's well worth the effort, as you'll have the opportunity of experiencing the wonders of Lord Howe or Norfolk Islands. Being sub-tropical getaways they're quite different and, are among the world's most natural heritage destinations.

Located 450Kms off mainland Australia, Lord Howe Island is the lone survivor of an extinct volcano chain. Its incredible, natural environment, with rainforest clad hills, green lagoons and unique wildlife, is perfect for cycling around. Norfolk Island is about 1,700Kms east-north-east of Sydney, or a two and a half hour flight. Much of the island is covered by national parks and reserves where birds are prolific. The sub-tropical climate makes it ideal for fishing, bushwalking, scuba diving and snorkelling.

Whether you're looking for a casual getaway or an indulgent escape, Australia's beautiful islands cater for all ages, tastes and budgets.

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Ken MacKenzie is a Marketing and Public Relations Consultant who recommends you immerse yourself in the ultimate exotic vacation at some of the world's most romantic places. For further information on Australia’s exotic vacation islands, please visit: Australia's exotic vacation islands

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Disposing of old Golf Cart Batteries

Sun, 25 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Lead acid batteries have been determined to be unsuitable for disposal as municipal solid waste because they contain toxic heavy metals and have corrosive properties. Golf cart batteries are not to be placed in waste baskets or dumpsters where they will end up as municipal trash.

So, what can you do? For starters, don't toss your golf cart's old battery into a bin with your household recyclables and leave it on the curb. The battery, also referred to as a lead-acid battery, contains about 21 pounds of lead, three pounds of plastic and one gallon of sulfuric acid. These items can be toxic if handled improperly.

If you are the do-it-yourself type, take your spent battery to a quality auto parts retailer that is committed to battery recycling.

Nearly 90 percent of all lead-acid batteries are recycled. Almost any retailer that sells lead-acid batteries collects used batteries for recycling, as required by most state laws. Reclaimers crush batteries into nickel-sized pieces and separate the plastic components. They send the plastic to a reprocessor for manufacture into new plastic products and deliver purified lead to battery manufacturers and other industries.

Many states have regulations in place requiring battery recycling. (Thirty-seven states in the U.S. require lead-acid battery recycling; making retailers collect used lead-acid batteries from customers who buy new batteries.)

As neither sulphuric acid nor lead are exactly good for the environment you have to be careful when you dispose of old lead-acid batteries. Leave it for recycling. You can also leave your old battery where you buy your new one. If that should not be the case, contact your local municipality to check where you can safely dispose of old batteries. In the old days, when we changed a battery, we threw out the old one and never gave it a second thought. Today, we know better. We know that:
· Individuals who become poisoned by lead can experience symptoms including irritability, stomach aches, poor appetite, diarrhea, colic, distractibility, and lethargy;
· Lead acid typically consists of 40% sulfuric acid, a corrosive that can burn skin; and
· The improper disposal of lead-acid batteries can contaminate soil and water. The toxic metal is not able to dissolve in water or biodegrade, dissipate, decay, or burn, making it an extremely harmful hazard.

On a positive note it seems as if most people take this seriously. About 93% of all battery lead is recycled, making it the most highly recycled consumer product. Help in making sure we go towards 100%!

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Ken Mackenzie is a Marketing and Public Relations Consultant with an interest in golf. For additional information on golf cart batteries including how lead acid batteries work; how to use a hydrometer; changing batteries and troubleshooting golf cart batteries, please visit Golf Cart Battery Maintenance Program

Source: http://www.articletrader.com