Abstract: A safety device includes a first loop arranged around a handle of a nozzle. via a first strip of material. A second strip of material extends across the second A second loop is arranged around a body of the nozzle and adjoins the first loop loop. A first strip of material includes a fastener for creating a third loop that prevents a bale of the nozzle from being opened. The safety device may include a visual indicator arranged at a free end of the first strip of material for indicating that a firefighting crew maintaining the nozzle has passed inspection and the type of agent the fire hose expels.

Abstract: A shop horse pad of closed cell foam is cylindrical in shape and having a central radial opening provided therein. An axial slit is provided along the length of the pad that creates two axial edges. A strip of adhesive is arranged along at least one of the axial edges. A covering strip, of preferably cellophane, is provided on the strip of adhesive such that when it is removed, the two axial edges adhere together. In this manner, a user may simply force the pad over the horizontal work tubing of the shop horse and removes the covering strip. Thereafter, the axial edges of the pad are forced together to form a solid pad about the exterior of the horizontal tubing.

Abstract: A sifter device includes a proximal end having an arm support ring through which a user's hand and lower arm passes. A pair of elongated arms is arranged on opposite sides of the arm ring. A basket scoop, having a cutting edge, is arranged at a distal end of the device for scooping a medium that contains a detected metallic object that is retrieved. A grip is arranged along the pair of elongated member and includes an end that extends beyond the elongated members to be used in hanging the device from an article of clothing during metal detecting search activities when not digging or sifting in the medium. For example, an operator's belt or pants pocket may be used to hang the device from an article of clothing when not in use, preferably on the back pocket out of the way of the magnetic field generated by the metal detector.

Abstract: A gardening implement includes a pair of shovels arranged at one end of a handle assembly. The handle assembly includes a spring loaded actuation mechanism that biases the device towards an open position. A bottom end of the handle is fixed to an upper end of one of the shovels. The actuation mechanism includes an upper end that pivotally connects substantially near a grip end of the handle via a hinge. In the preferred embodiment, a second hinge is arranged within the actuation mechanism which further extends through an eyelet affixed between the grip end of the handle.

Abstract: A circularly shaped weight includes an opening in the center having a handle extending there through. The handle bi-sects the opening and creates equal openings for receiving a hand or foot of the user. The weight is particularly useful for individuals who may be incapacitated by arthritis or other physical ailments that may prevent them from properly grasping a weight. The novel shape is useful in stacking the weights when they are not in use. A plurality of circularly shaped weight may be fastened together via a coupler.

Abstract: A gutter cleaning apparatus includes a pair of opposing reverse curved blades biased open and connected together at upper edges by spring hinges. A fixed blade attaches to an extendible pole. A movable blade includes a lever arm fixed to an end of a rope that extends down the axis of the pole to the user's hand. During operation, the end of the pole with the attached apparatus is lifted over the gutter; the blades are lowered into the gutter sidewalls, and slid along the gutter trough to pile up debris. The apparatus, with open blades, is lifted over the pile and lowered into the debris. The rope is then pulled taut to close the blades and grasp the debris. The apparatus and debris are lifted from the gutter. Tension on the rope is slackened to release the debris that falls to the ground for collection and disposal.

Abstract: The present invention includes a device for alerting the operator of a truck equipped with a dump bed when the tailgate is unsecured. In one embodiment, the device is connected to an existing “low air” alarm that indicates a rapid drop in air pressure in the air hoses of the brakes. Thus, when the tailgate is unsecured, air pressure in the air hoses drops and a warning indicator alerts the operator of the existence of a dangerous condition. The alarm is deactivated by properly securing the tailgate. In another embodiment, an electrical switch connected to the mechanism that secures the tailgate. An alarm signal is provided to the operator when the mechanism is not properly securing the tailgate. The invention also includes a method for bleeding air from the air system that operates brakes of a dump truck to cause the “low air” alarm to be actuated.

Abstract: A carrying strap for transporting the leading edge inflatable traction kite from a vehicle to the edge of the water as well as to and from the location to which the leading inflatable traction kite will be used is disclosed. A hands-free device and method for tethering a leading edge inflatable traction kite includes a quick release catch for attaching an end of a leash to a user while a second end of the leash is attached to the kite.

Abstract: The invention is a game that includes a miniature basketball court. Players control the rotational direction and the side to side movement of their team members. A player scores a goal by shooting a miniature basketball through a basket or hole in the goal. The basketball court comprises several crescent-shaped regions.

Abstract: A pest deterrent compound includes water, calcium carbonate and hydrogen sulfide. The compound is successful in deterring white flies and other destructive insects from attacking plants. The plant is protected by pouring a liquid solution onto the plant and the ground underneath and around the plant. The compound is absorbed into the plant's leaves and roots and acts as a deterrent against destructive insects. The pest deterrent compound is given in the following formula.