11/9/11

There are two easy ways to cut back on junk mail being sent to you. One is to make sure your home phone number is listed as private and not in the book; a public listing means your information is available to anyone. Second, whenever your information is requested over the Internet, on the phone or in a store, always be sure to ask that your information not be solicited after sharing it, or don't share it all.

11/8/11

A properly working fireplace is key for energy efficiency and safety in your home. If you're agile enough, one way to inspect your fireplace is to lay down a medium-size mirror at the base of the fireplace inside the home and then go on the roof and look down the chimney with a flashlight. You should see the light reflect. Of course, if you are fearful of heights, leave it to the pros and have them inspect, clean and sweep out your chimney annually.

11/7/11

If your home is prone to power outages during bad weather, you may have a refrigerator full of spoiled food when the power finally turns back on. One way to help save food during an outage is to always keep plastic containers -- like soda bottles and margarine tubs -- full of water in both the refrigerator and freezer. They'll help keep the inside cooler when the power is out, hopefully keeping your groceries chilled until the power is on again.