DampRid Expert Provides 10 Tips to Protect Vacation Homes and Condos from off Season Water Damage

ORLANDO, Fla.--(Business Wire)--
For those with a vacation home or condo, the end of summer means closing and
winterizing this valuable property to keep it secure and in good shape for
future use. Water in all of its forms presents a special challenge for owners of
second homes.

Darin Galka, a moisture control expert for DampRid, recommends 10 tips to keep
your vacation home or condo dry during the off season:

1. Clean your gutters so that rain water quickly drains away from the house.

2. Disconnect water hoses and cover outside spigots with insulation.

3. Drain all faucets in the house.

4. Clean out the refrigerator, unplug, and drain the ice maker hose.

5. Turn off water at the main line (or have your utility provider do so).

6. In cold environments, hire someone to winterize your plumbing to prevent
frozen pipes.

7. Check the foundation of your home and make necessary repairs.

8. Service your heating and cooling system for optimal performance.

9. Store or completely cover outdoor furniture and other items to protect
against precipitation.

10. Place DampRid moisture absorbers in key areas such as bathrooms, kitchens,
laundry rooms, closets, basements, and garages.

"Excess moisture or water damage can be an unpleasant surprise when you reopen
your home," said Galka, "and, it can lead to unpleasant, musty odors and the
growth of damaging, unhealthy mold and mildew."

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns that exposure to mold can cause
symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation.
Particularly susceptible are pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and those
with pre-existing health conditions. Severe reactions can include asthma
episodes, fever, shortness of breath, and mold infection in the lungs.

DampRid offers a line of moisture absorber products that controls and eliminates
moisture that allows mold to grow. To learn more about moisture and mold control
and how to prepare a home for the off season, visit www.damprid.com.

About DampRid

DampRid products control moisture in all areas of the home, vacation and weekend
homes, cars, boats, and RVs. DampRid is now a division of W.M. Barr and is based
in Memphis, Tennessee. DampRid products are available for purchase at major
retailers and grocery stores, online at http://shop.wmbarr.com/store, or by
calling 1-800-238-2672.

Consensus Communications
Michelle Edwards, APR, 407-608-5913
michelle@onmessage.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009