West Bend Provides a Silver Lining.

Protect your home and business from water damage

Many people think about storms and flooding when the topic of water damage comes up, but there are other everyday risks in homes and businesses. Common culprits of plumbing leaks include water heaters, dishwashers, ice makers, washing machines, sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs.

Here are a few things you can do to prevent water damage.

• Know where the main water shutoffs are located. Install water shutoff valves on water lines under sinks and toilets and water lines leading to outside faucets.
• Check washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator hoses for signs of deterioration and replace hoses that show any evidence of cracking.
• Repair small leaks around appliances before they become a problem.
• Know and follow the recommended maintenance procedures for your appliances, such as periodically draining the water heater to clean out the sediment at the bottom of the tank.
• Run plenty of water when using your garbage disposal so it won't clog and cause a leak.
• When a problem does occur, hire a reputable contractor.

Check out these great West Bend blog posts for more helpful information!

Tips to make sure your sump pump is ready for spring

Benefits of a home water flow monitoring/detection system

Tips to avoid water issues for your business

Are you prepared for a tornado?

As we say good-bye to the snow and freezing rain of winter, many areas in the United States are entering peak season for tornadoes and severe weather. These menacing storms can be devastating to our communities. Did you know…?

• About 1,200 tornadoes hit the U.S. each year;
• Most tornadoes occur between 4:00 – 9:00pm;
• A typical tornado travels around 10 – 20 miles per hour; and
• The strongest wind speed measured in a tornado was 318 miles per hour on May 3, 1999 near Bridge Creek/Moore, Oklahoma.

Would you be prepared if a tornado hit your community?

West Bend has prepared some important tornado safety information, including what to do before, during, and after a tornado.

For more material on tornadoes, visit The National Severe Storms Laboratory. There you’ll find information on tornado basics, types, detection, forecasting, and FAQs.

Americans for the Arts honors West Bend

Each year, Americans for the Arts recognizes 10 business for their exceptional involvement with the arts that enriches the workplace, education, and the community. Winners of the award set the standard for excellence and serve as role models others to follow.

West Bend is thrilled to be one of the 10 companies honored this year. We thank Americans for the Arts for recognizing us. We share their beliefs about the transformative power of the arts and the importance of partnerships among businesses, communities, and the arts to make the arts accessible to all.

Americans for the Arts’ mission is to serve, advance, and lead the network of organizations and individuals who cultivate, promote, sustain, and support the arts in America.

Learn more about this award and Americans for the Arts.