Cooler temperatures may mean lighting a fire in the fireplace at home, but to burn the cleanest fire, always use dry wood. Firewood that has not been properly dried out -- or seasoned -- is called "green" or "wet" wood. While it does burn, it doesn't do so completely, and it releases more pollutants into the air and can actually bring smoke into your home. This creates an unhealthy air environment in your home. How can you tell if your firewood is properly seasoned? When it burns, the wood should snap or crackle; wet wood will make a hissing sound.

Have some old remote controls for your TV, VCR, DVD player or stereo in your junk drawer? Not only can you recycle them, you can also raise money for charity. The website donateyourremote.com repairs old remote controls and resells them to customers who are looking for a refurbished control. Just contact the company through its website, and it'll send you a prepaid envelope you can use to send in your remote. You choose the charity, and it donates 10 percent of the purchase price to the nonprofit of your choice.

The sugar substitute xylitol is commonly found in things like sugar-free mints, gum, chewable vitamins and even in some kinds of peanut butter and toothpaste. While it may have fewer calories than real sugar and is safe for diabetics, it can be deadly to man's best friend. When dogs ingest sugar-free items intended for human consumption, xylitol is actually about 100 times more toxic than milk chocolate. When a dog eats xylitol, it causes a rapid decrease in the canine's blood sugar level, which leads to seizures, brain damage and liver failure. If you suspect your dog has eaten xylitol, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680.