What does it mean for something to be the color black? Simply put, it’s when light cannot be reflected by an object. You might be surprised to learn that scientists have been searching for ways to create the blackest black in the world. It turns out super black paints can change the science world.
9 simple ways to protect your home from burglars
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You might not have a criminal mind, but think how a crook finds the perfect houses to target. An empty home in a neighborhood where people keep to themselves, no cameras or alarms, and dark or dimly lit structures, right?
Tap or click to order your home security system from our sponsor, SimpliSafe.
A home security system can go a long way toward making your house unattractive to thieves, but there are more steps you can take to deter burglars. Here are nine tips you can implement right away.
1. Know your neighbors
Your house (and neighbors’ homes) will be less attractive to burglars if the people on your street spend time on their porches, working in their yards or socializing outdoors. Neighbors who know each other look out for each other.
Make friends with the people on your street. If you trust them, you can ask them to help keep an eye on your house when you’re on vacation.
You can check if there’s a Neighborhood Watch program for your area. And if there isn’t, maybe you should be the one to start it. Tap or click here for the 10 questions you should ask if you want a home security system.
2. Install video cameras
A study by the Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation found more than 60% of burglars would consider the presence of cameras or surveillance equipment when choosing a target. This is where a home security system comes in.
Our sponsor, SimpliSafe, offers the SimpliCam with HD video and intruder and motion alerts. Options for home security systems used to be very limited. You could deal with a local company with a complex and expensive system and pay a high price for monitoring services.
But now, there are easier and more affordable options — like with our sponsor, SimpliSafe, which is intelligent, effective and doesn’t tie you into an inconvenient contract.
3. Close your doors and windows
Smartphone charging mistakes you're making and how to fix them
Sometimes we take our phones for granted. They’re powerful, incredible devices that we tend to misuse without meaning to. Some common mistakes you’re making with your smartphone now could damage its battery and reduce its lifespan.
Shopping for an outdoor security camera? 5 things to look for
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In today’s world, you can never be too safe. There are many ways to secure your property, from locking your doors to keeping hackers out with antivirus software.
Take outdoor security cameras, for example. This popular technology helps you protect your home and loved ones from whatever may go bump in the night.
Free app to quickly remove your pics and posts on Facebook, Twitter and more
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Kim couldn’t tell you how many messages and emails she has gotten over the years asking the same question: “How can I delete myself from the internet?” Sadly, you can’t. Not really. There’s just too much out there.
Why the Ringling Brothers operated a secret spy agency
When you think of the Ringling Brothers, you probably think of trapeze artists, fire breathers and tigers jumping through hoops. Spies probably don’t come to mind. But in fact, there was a time when the company synonymous with the circus ran its own spy agency. The reason they did it is truly shocking.
The strange way airports get their call signs
Every airport has its own specific three-letter code. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is PHX, for example, and Denver International Airport is DEN. It turns out that the way these codes are assigned is much more complicated than just abbreviating the city or state. If you fly to Montreal, Canada the call sign is YUL. Why is this and how does the system work?
What would happen if a supernova hit Earth?
Supernovas are the largest explosions in the universe. They happen when a dying star sheds its outer layer in a moment of extreme energy. If they’re so powerful, what would happen if one were to happen close to us? Would we be able to survive?
Does the Earth have other moons?
The Earth may seem lonely in the vastness of space, but it has had one constant companion over the last 4.5 billion years: The moon. But it turns out that the moon we see each night might not be Earth’s only moon. It all depends on your perspective.
The world's tallest egg drop
Many of us did the classic egg drop science experiment in school. This is where you build a contraption to protect an egg from a steep drop. But what if you took that to the next level and created something to protect the egg if it fell from space? That’s precisely what one engineer tried. Did he succeed?
How Amazon’s complicated shipping system really works
Amazon receives about 13 million orders every single day. Just a few days later, those packages arrive on the customer’s doorstep. So how is this shipping process so efficient? It turns out Amazon has an incredibly complex system that may be even more convoluted than you think.
8 smart ways to use Bluetooth trackers like the AirTag and Tile
You’ve probably heard all the buzz about Bluetooth trackers, from Apple AirTags to Tile trackers. Tap or click here to find out the difference between these two beloved gadgets.
Whichever one you choose, you’re buying a popular piece of lost and found software that can save your hide in times of crisis. Bluetooth trackers are most famous for helping people track down lost or stolen items. But there are a few different uses you might not have known about.
Home security tip: How to monitor gun safes, medicine cabinets, workshops and more
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Smart home products aren’t new to the market, but they are becoming more affordable to make your daily life safer and easier.
If you’re new to the smart home game, start with a must for keeping your home protected 24/7. Our sponsor, SimpliSafe. Those old-school security companies that send a pushy salesperson to your door with a three-year contract and installers are so 20 years ago.
A Thanksgiving letter from Kim
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Hello friends,
I hope you’re having a great Thanksgiving Day spending time with the people you love and eating delicious food. Along with watching the parade, having good conversations and slipping into a turkey coma, don’t forget to take a moment to reflect on your own life. I’m sure that there are many wonderful things you are thankful for.
Scientists explain exactly what a T-Rex would taste like
Dinosaurs have been extinct for millions of years. Recent scientific advancements suggest we’re getting close to bringing some of them back. So that begs the question, what would they taste like? Well, the answer might not be what you think.
Why fire smoke constantly follows you
If you’ve ever gathered around a campfire, you might have noticed the smoke seems to follow you no matter where you are. No, it’s not your bad luck — there’s actually a scientific reason behind it.
Buying guide: How to choose an Amazon Echo for your home
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The holidays are just around the bend. Are you ready? Finding the best gifts takes time, energy, and research, which is why we’re here to remind you to get the ball rolling early.
You’re not alone if you’re considering an Amazon Echo device for yourself or a loved one. When it comes to your next smart speaker, you’ve got plenty of models to consider. Amazon’s line of Echo smart speakers tends to rise to the top above all else. Tap or click for clever ways to use your Echo and Alexa.
How do oysters make pearls?
Pearls are iridescent spheres made of the same materials as an oyster’s shell. So, why are they so much more beautiful than the shell itself? It all comes down to the life cycle of an oyster.
How humans solved the greatest riddle of navigation
When you look at a globe, you see horizontal and vertical lines crisscrossing the entire sphere. Those are latitude and longitude lines and they have helped us explore the Earth over the last 500 years. In this video, you’ll learn how to find your own latitude and longitude at home without using Google. Cool!
Why is the Vatican's giant telescope located in Arizona?
Here’s a fun fact for your next holiday get together: The Catholic church is a leading force in space exploration. How? The church funds a massive space telescope in the middle of the Arizona desert. Researchers have used it to make countless discoveries and better understand the universe. But why is it in Arizona?