Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is important for good health. Raw fruits and vegetables contain harmful bacteria (Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria) that can cause foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning. Fresh or uncooked fruits and vegetables can be made safe and enjoyed without concern if steps are taken to reduce the risk of foodborne illness by properly washing before consuming.
All fresh produce should be rinsed or washed just prior to use in cool, clean, running water. The exception is produce that has been washed by the producer and the packaging indicates, “pre-washed”. There is no need for any special product to wash produce such as a vegetable or produce wash. Produce exhibiting dirt or having a rough skin can be brushed while running under water. Never wash produce with bleach or soap. Once thoroughly washed, dry with a paper towel to further remove bacteria. Even if the rind or skin is to be removed, washing should not be skipped; bacteria can be carried into the fruit when it is cut into.
In addition to washing produce, washing hands (20 seconds under warm water) before and after washing produce is important to prevent transferring bacteria to the produce prior to washing or in preparation. Surface areas used for preparing the produce also need to be clean.
Lastly, washing produce before storing may promote bacterial growth and speed up spoilage, so it is best to wait and wash fruits and vegetables just before use.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Woman and Man Gardening. Photo Source: Getty Images.
Spring is here! Time to get active and enjoy the outdoors! Gardening and caring for outdoor plants is one activity that allows one to combine physical activity with outdoor beauty and fresh air. Whether gardening to grow food or flowers or to landscape and maintain a yard, gardening offers low- to moderate-intensity exercise. The pulling, digging, reaching, twisting, and bending of gardening amounts to light aerobic exercise, which improves psychological wellbeing, heart and lung health, helps prevent obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, some cancers, and so many more healthy benefits. In addition, these whole body movements increase endurance, strength, balance and flexibility, better hand function, bone density as well as burns calories. Regular garden chores can burn anywhere from 120 to 200 calories per half hour depending on the intensity of the activity.
Tree care is another rewarding outdoor activity that blends physical movement with environmental stewardship. Whether it’s pruning, trimming, or planting new trees, taking care of trees involves a variety of physical tasks that help keep your yard or landscape healthy. These tasks require strength and coordination as you lift branches, use tools, and navigate different terrain. Caring for trees promotes not only physical fitness but also mental wellbeing, as being outdoors and nurturing living things can significantly reduce stress and improve mood. By keeping your trees healthy, you contribute to the overall beauty and biodiversity of your environment, while also providing long-term benefits like shade, cleaner air, and improved property value.
For the most part, gardening is a safe, beneficial activity but can lead to injury if precautions are not taken. Therefore, it is important to take note of garden safety to prevent injury from movement or improper use of tools.
Regardless of age, experts quoted in an AARP article, warn against jumping into gardening activities without preparing and warming up a little bit. Rather, they recommend pre-gardening preparation to build strength, stamina, and aerobic power to prevent injury as well as talking to your doctor before beginning any new regiment. The following exercises are recommended to strength garden muscles prior to gardening:
Walk to warm up the muscles and build core strength. Stand tall and concentrate on core muscles as you move to support the back.
Sit-to-stand exercises (raising from a chair to stand position without using hands) help to strengthen the thigh muscles and the core muscles for stability and improve mobility. Set a goal to see how many can be done in 30 seconds several times daily.
Hamstring stretches help to keep the muscles loose and prevent lower back, knee, and foot pain. There are numerous ways to stretch hamstrings so it is best to find the stretching exercise that is personally best.
Planks are great for building body strength as well as stretching and building strength in the arms, fingers and hands. Planks can be done on the floor or against a wall.
Practice balance by standing on one foot to build stability and prevent falling.
Once one has properly prepared for gardening, safety should always be first and foremost in the way we use our body and tools in the garden. For your comfort, safety, and for the good of your back and knees, keep these tips in mind:
warm up and stretch prior to activity;
begin with light movements;
stand tall occasionally to stretch the legs and roll the shoulders to relieve tension;
lift with one’s legs instead of back to prevent back injury;
avoid repetition; switch up activity every 15 minutes;
practice caution when raking and shoveling; learn safe use of rakes and shovels from Virginia Cooperative Extension to prevent strain to the back, shoulders, and wrists;
kneel instead of bending; consider wearing knee pads or using a cushion;
apply sun screen with a SPF of 30 and ultraviolet A and B protection;
consume plenty of water while working to stay hydrated;
wear a hat or other protective clothing as needed; mask when using chemicals;
wear gloves to protect hands from blisters, chemicals, sharp tools, etc.;
Gardening not only provides physical activity but can also be a great source of happiness. You may garden to grow nutritious fruits and vegetables or beautify your world. Whatever your reason, enjoy your gardening chores but keep your body fit and work safely to prevent injury.
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Sources
Preparing Your Body for the Gardening Season Ahead, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
Inspire to Move – Gardening is Exercise, University of Illinois
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
It’s that time of the year when college campuses are preparing for students moving into dormitories, campus housing, or off-campus apartments or housing. Stores are stocked with every possible item a young, trendy college student could possibly need or want. With all of the excitement, anticipation, and stress, it is important for students and parents to revisit “college safety!” College life brings new challenges.
As college students prepare for a new chapter in their lives, the excitement of moving into dormitories, campus housing, or off-campus apartments can be palpable. However, amidst the thrill of decorating and settling in, it’s crucial for both students and parents to prioritize safety. Whether it’s ensuring secure access to buildings or being mindful of neighborhood safety, students must remain vigilant. In addition to these safety considerations, many families are also contemplating their own housing situations. As they navigate through this transitional period, some may even explore the option to sell home for cash, allowing them to free up resources and reduce the financial strain of college expenses.
Navigating the world of real estate can be daunting, especially for families involved in supporting their college-bound students. With the housing market fluctuating, parents might find themselves looking for ways to optimize their investments or downsize. Selling a home not only provides financial flexibility but also allows families to adapt to changing circumstances. As students settle into their new living arrangements, parents can focus on finding the right solutions that fit their needs, whether that means purchasing smaller properties or seeking alternative housing arrangements. Ultimately, maintaining a secure and supportive environment is key to ensuring that students thrive during their college experience.
Five students walking on a college campus – Photo: Canva.com
10 safety tips to remember as students return to campus
Keep electric safety in mind. Don’t overload outlets, extension cords or power strips. Keep electrical cords and appliances away from bedding, curtains, and other flammable material. Make sure that all cords and electrical products are UL, CSA, or MET approved. Check with university/college housing for specific housing rules for use of hot plates, coffee makers, microwaves, air fryers, etc allowed in dorm rooms. Many colleges are banning the use of cooking appliance in on-campus housing and instead providing a designated area for the use of cooking appliances.
Check for smoke detectors. Know the fire escape route and never assume that if an alarm sounds that it is a drill.
Always keep dorm or apartment doors locked, even when occupied.
Keep an inventory of valuable possessions and record serial numbers.
Know what coverage is needed for the housing situation. A student living in a dorm may have coverage for their personal belongs under their parents’ homeowner’s insurance policy. Students living off-campus will want to consider rental insurance to cover their personal possessions.
Hire a moving service. When planning a move, whether it’s into a dorm or a new apartment, choosing a reliable moving service like Lifetime Moving can ensure a smooth transition without the stress of handling heavy furniture and delicate items alone. Be sure to pack essentials in clearly labeled boxes for easy access upon arrival. Companies that offer packing and unpacking services, along with storage solutions, can be a lifesaver during a move. Whether you’re relocating for a short period or need extra time to settle into your new space, services like these take the hassle out of organizing and transporting your belongings. A Moving Company Crossville, TN provides both affordable packing options and secure storage facilities, ensuring your items are safely packed, stored, and ready for delivery when you need them. These services allow you to focus on other aspects of your move while leaving the heavy lifting and meticulous packing to the professionals, guaranteeing a seamless experience from start to finish.
Consider hiring local movers. When hiring a moving service, consider companies that offer a range of options tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re moving into a dorm or a new home, these services can assist with everything from furniture transportation to specialized handling of fragile items. If you’re relocating to Raleigh, NC, for example, a moving company with local expertise can ensure a smooth transition by navigating the area’s roads and regulations with ease. Flash moving services are an excellent choice for those in need of fast and efficient assistance. These companies offer short-notice moving options, ensuring that your belongings are transported quickly and securely. Whether you’re making a last-minute move or require a flexible schedule, flash moving services will accommodate your timing while providing professional packing, transport, and unloading services to ease the entire moving process.
Make sure that health insurance coverage meets the university/college requirements. Most colleges in the United States require their students to have health insurance.
Don’t allow technology to cause unawareness of surroundings. When one is plugged into music or a smartphone, they may no longer be aware of their surroundings leaving one open to potential dangerous situations or walking into traffic.
Never walk alone, especially at night. Utilize the buddy system whenever possible and know where emergency call buttons or phones are located across campus. Consider carrying pepper spray or a whistle.
Have fun, party safe. Come and go with a friend. Avoid becoming inebriated and losing control. It’s easy for others to take advantage of someone who is alone, can’t think or act rationally.
Always have emergency contacts on you or in your device. In the event of an emergency, one of the first steps emergency responders and hospitals take when someone is admitted alone is to check a smartphone (in most cases they are able to bypass the pass code in order to access contacts) or look for medical ID tags.
Wishing all students and parents a safe academic year!
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Unsettled weather tends to bring about unprecedented winds, powerful storms and tornadoes causing personal loss, major damage and power outages. While personal loss and damage are devastating, power outages can be a major inconvenience. To prepare and stay safe, it’s important to know steps you can take before, during and after a power outage.
Power lines and fallen trees after a storm.
Power outages can be over almost as quickly as begun, but some can last much longer — up to days or even weeks. This depends on the severity of the storm and what damage has been done to power lines and systems. A power outage disrupts everyday life as it shuts down communications, water, transportation and services, closes businesses, causes food spoilage, and prevents use of medical devices.
Given these potential disruptions, it’s crucial to consider the resilience of a home when looking to buy. As you explore properties, evaluating features like backup power systems, flood zones, and overall structural integrity becomes essential. Homes equipped with generators or in areas with robust infrastructure may offer added peace of mind. Additionally, researching the neighborhood’s emergency preparedness and local services can provide further assurance.
For those considering a move to Gwinnett County, GA, it’s important to use resources that provide comprehensive information about property resilience. Utilizing platforms like Gwinnett county, GA on ez Home Search can help you find homes that meet your specific needs and safety criteria. This tool allows you to access detailed property listings and neighborhood information, ensuring that you choose a home with the features necessary to withstand potential disruptions.
Before a Power Outage – Prepare
Preparation can keep the most important people in your world safe when bad weather hits. Here’s some quick tips on how to prepare:
Have a plan that all family members know and understand.
Take an inventory of items in the home and keep it up to date. Pictures are best.
Plan for alternative power sources and test in advance—batteries, portable generator (fuel), power banks.
Build an emergency kit that includes 3-days of non-perishable foods and bottled water; important medications; blankets; personal hygiene items; first aid supplies; flashlights.
Talk to your medical provider about medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
In addition to personal safety measures, it’s crucial to consider the impact of a power outage on your home’s essential systems. Devices like water pumps and HVAC units, powered by electric motors, are vital for maintaining comfort and safety. Companies like Palmers Electric Motors & Pumps specialize in ensuring that these systems remain functional, even during outages. Regular maintenance and having a reliable backup power source for these motors and pumps can prevent significant disruptions and protect your home from potential hazards during an extended power loss.
Place thermometers in freezers and refrigerators to monitor temperature when power returns. A container of water (or ice cubes) in the freezer is also a good indicator of temperatures going above 32ºF.
Remove or secure items outside of the home that can blow or become weapons.
Trim tree branches overhanging a house and clean gutters.
Get a weather alarm with battery backup (keep batteries fresh) and/or sign up for weather alert notifications from local radio or tv stations.
Have your phone charged.
Freeze jugs of water.
During a Power Outage – Stay Safe
The lights are out, appliances, and all electrical equipment without battery or power backup have stopped running. Now what?
Report downed power lines. Do not touch down lines nor attempt to remove trees which may be tangled in downed lines.
Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics. Leave a lamp or night light connected to indicate when the power does come back on.
Turn off or disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When the power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food is safe in a securely closed refrigerator for up to 4 hours. In a freezer it depends on how full it is — the fuller your freezer, the longer it can last. A full freezer can last up to 48 hours, and a half-freezer can last up to 24 hours. Place frozen jugs of water in refrigerator to help maintain coldness.
Avoid using candles and your phone more than necessary.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning when using generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills; these items should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
When faced with a power outage, it’s essential to understand the immediate actions needed to protect your electrical systems and maintain safety in your home. Alongside reporting downed power lines and ensuring that all unnecessary electrical devices are unplugged, it’s also a good time to assess your home’s electrical infrastructure.
Outages can sometimes expose vulnerabilities in your system, highlighting the importance of having a reliable electrical service to address any potential issues. This is where professional assistance becomes invaluable, ensuring that your home is not only safe during outages but also equipped to handle any surges when power is restored.
Engaging a trusted service provider like Dream Team Electric can help you prepare for and respond to electrical challenges effectively. Their expertise extends beyond simple repairs; they can assist in reinforcing your home’s electrical systems to withstand power fluctuations and surges. By scheduling regular maintenance checks and upgrades, Dream Team Home Services can ensure your home is ready for anything, from routine outages to more severe electrical storms.
Additionally, their knowledge about integrating battery backup systems and surge protectors can provide peace of mind, safeguarding your appliances and electronics against unexpected disruptions. With their support, you can focus on keeping your home safe and secure, knowing that your electrical needs are in capable hands.
After a Power Outage – Assess
Recovery begins.
Throw out any unsafe food, particularly meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers that have been exposed to temperatures higher than 40-degrees F for two hours or more or that have an unusual odor, color or texture. When in doubt, throw it out. For additional help with food after a power outage, visit Play It Safe With Food After a Power Outage .
If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately for a new supply.
Plug in appliances and electric equipment including sump pumps. Check to make sure each is working properly. Note anything that is not working properly and report to your insurance agent.
Note damage done to home or property and report to your insurance agent.
Call AnswerLine at 800-262-3804 with food safety questions or water/mold clean up should water get into the home.
For more helpful information and tips, visit Ready. One can never be reminded too often or be too prepared when storms strike and the power goes out.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
“Is it safe to eat baby carrots that have a white film on the outside?” Social media posts circulating have lead consumers to believe that the white film is a chlorine residue from processing that could cause cancer. This is an internet myth that has been making the rounds for years.
True facts. The white film on baby carrots is safe. It is little more than white blush which is a thin layer of dehydrated carrot. The film develops when the baby carrots are exposed to air and the outside becomes dry. Baby carrots do not have a protective skin to prevent them from drying. Most baby carrots are cut and shaped from larger deformed carrots really making them baby ‘cut’ carrots. According to a researcher at McGill University ”moisture loss from the carrot surface roughens the outer membranes causing light to scatter which in turn results in a whitish appearance.”
While it is true that carrots may be rinsed in a dilute solution of chlorine to rid bacteria, this has nothing to do with white blush. Instead of representing a cancer health hazard, carrot processing with chlorinated water is a health-protective step recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration to prevent foodborne outbreaks. The amount of chlorine used in processing is many levels below the allowable limit for drinking water. Prior to packaging, the little carrots go through a plain tap water rinse.
If white blush is undesirable for fresh carrot eating, they are still great for cooking. Besides showing white blush, baby carrots may also get rubbery if packages are not sealed. Rubbery carrots are safe to eat and may be used for cooking should they not make great snacks. Finally, baby carrots that go beyond rubbery to soft and slimy should be tossed.
Here’s some great baby-carrot storage facts from StillTasty.com
How long do baby carrots last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions – keep baby carrots refrigerated.
To maximize the shelf life of baby carrots, refrigerate in covered container or re-sealable plastic bag or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
How long do baby carrots last in the fridge? Properly stored, baby carrots will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze baby carrots? Yes, to freeze: (1) Blanch (plunge into boiling water) baby carrots for two minutes and chill quickly in ice cold water; (2) Drain off excess moisture, package in airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze immediately.
Frozen baby carrots will soften when thawed and are best used in cooked dishes.
How long do baby carrots last in the freezer? Properly stored, they will maintain best quality for about 12 to 18 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
The freezer time shown is for best quality only – carrots that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
How to tell if baby carrots are bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the baby carrots: discard any carrots that have an off smell or appearance; if mold appears, discard the baby carrots.
So put the internet myth to rest and enjoy your baby carrots!
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Under the right circumstances, glass bakeware will shatter, crack, split and even explode when exposed to thermal shock. Thermal shock is when an object abruptly goes through a drastic temperature change causing it to fracture as it expands or contracts.
While glass bakeware and kitchenware is a healthier alternative to metal, it is not without limitations; like all glass, it can break. Despite breaking as a possibility, glass is preferred because there are no hazardous materials to leach into food and it bakes more evenly.
Regardless of brand, “Pyrex” is the name consumers often use when referring to glass Pyrex®, Anchor Hocking, Bake King or other bakeware and kitchenware because it has been a trusted household name for decades. Pyrex® was valued for years for its sturdiness and ability to withstand rapid, dramatic temperature changes that typically shatter normal glassware. However, with changes in manufacturing, that old-fashioned reliability has changed with Pyrex as well as some other brands.
Pyrex (trademarked as PYREX) is a brand introduced by Corning Inc in 1915 for a line of clear, low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass used for laboratory glassware and kitchenware. It was later expanded to include clear and opal ware products made of soda-lime glass. In 1998, Corning sold the Pyrex brand name to World Kitchen LLC. World Kitchen stopped the manufacture of borosilicate glass and changed to less expensive, tempered soda-lime glass for kitchenware sold in the United States. Tempered soda-lime glass does not handle heat as well as borosilicate glass but does withstand breakage when dropped better. With some caution, tempered soda-lime glass withstands thermal shock reasonably well. Anchor Hocking and Bake King products are also made from tempered soda-lime glass. The OXO brand uses thermal shock resistant borosilicate glass in the manufacturer of its glass bakingware; the manufacturer’s information states that it can go from freezer to oven without the need to thaw.
To determine the kind of glass used in true Pyrex ware, look on the underside of the dish for these designations:
PYREX® (all UPPER CASE LETTERS plus, in the USA, a trademark notice comprising a capital R in a circle = low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass either clear or opaque originally made by Corning Inc. Scour estate auctions, thrift stores, antique stores, or purchase in Europe to acquire it.
pyrex® (all lower case letters plus a trademark notice comprising a capital R in a circle) = clear tempered high-thermal-expansion soda-lime glass kitchenware made by World Kitchen.
PYREX (all UPPER CASE LETTERS in an encircled oval with no trademark notice with European country noted) = European license for use on borosilicate glass products manufactured by International Cookware.
Some precautions are necessary for modern-day tempered soda-lime kitchenware. In 2010, Consumer Reports tested some Pyrex and found that taking the newer glass out of a hot oven and placing it on a wet granite countertop yielded poor results with the glass shattering almost instantly. As a result of its investigation, Consumer Reports called on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) to look into the problem of shattering bakeware.
Further, Consumer Reports issued ten precautions to consumers to minimize the chances of the glassware shattering:
Always place hot glassware on a dry, cloth potholder or towel.
Never use glassware for stovetop cooking or under a broiler.
Always allow the oven to fully preheat before placing the glassware in the oven.
Always cover the bottom of the dish with liquid before cooking meat or vegetables.
Don’t add liquid to hot glassware.
If you’re using the dish in a microwave, do not use browning elements, and avoid overheating oil and butter.
Do not take dishes directly from the freezer to the oven or vice versa.
Never place hot glassware directly on a countertop (or smooth top), metal surface, on a damp towel, in the sink, or on a cold or wet surface.
Inspect your dishes for chips, cracks, and scratches. Discard dishes with such damage.
As always, it is the consumer’s responsibility to read and save the manufacturer’s instructions for handling any product safely. Without instructions, check for a stamped label on the bottom side of the baking dish. If in doubt, the precautions issued by Consumer Reports will suffice for all glass bakeware and kitchenware.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Most deicing products readily available contain salt compounds known as magnesium chloride (used as a liquid on roads), sodium chloride (table salt), calcium chloride, and potassium chloride (fertilizer). Each winter these materials are applied to sidewalks, driveways, and steps to prevent slipping and falling. However, they are often applied without regard to the substance, application, or the damage that they may cause to the home, property, environment, pets, and nearby plants.
As for mentioned, deicing products are primarily comprised of salt. And just like household salt, all salts are not the same. Salts can cause injury to trees, lawns, and shrubs, corrode metal and concrete, and even do bodily harm to pets and humans. The most problematic element in any of the deicing products is the chloride; it causes corrosion and is toxic to plants.
Most of the popular de-icing products sold are chloride-based, each containing a different combination of salt. They include:
calcium chloride,
sodium chloride,
potassium chloride,
magnesium chloride.
Of these, the most commonly used is sodium chloride; it is widely available and least costly. It works at lower temperatures than other products and does not harm plants if excessive amounts are not applied.
While Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is listed on the above table, it contains no chloride and is less damaging to cars, metals, and concrete and less toxic to plants. It is made from dolomitic limestone and acetic acid, the main compound found in vinegar. CMA works differently than other deicers; it does not form brine like salts, but rather helps prevent snow particles from sticking to each other. It has little effect on plant growth or concrete. It is also said to be biodegradable and pet and wildlife friendly. The big downside is the cost.
If you want to avoid deicing products, consider using sand, kitty litter, or chicken grit. While these products won’t melt snow, they will provide traction in slippery spots. Sand and kitty litter are safe for pets and plants and can be swept up when the snow melts. (Chicken grit may be too sharp for the paws of some pets but will not harm plants.) Boots or shoes traversing any of these products should be removed upon entering a home as they could scratch floors.
Should the landscape fall victim to deicing, flushing the area around the plant roots in the spring with water will help to leech out the salts. Flushing may not be helpful if excessive salt has been used and plants and grass are found dead in the spring along deiced areas. Consider planting salt-tolerant plants in the landscape where deicer products may be used. For a list of landscape plants describing their tolerance to salt, visit Salt Damage in Landscape Plantsby Purdue Extension.
The best advice is to know something about the substance (salts used in the product), consider the application, and then READ AND FOLLOW the manufacturer’s directions for applying the product to minimize damage to property and landscape. And if possible, apply even less than is recommended. Deicing products are not meant to replace shoveling or to melt all snow and ice, but to aid in removal efforts to prevent slipping and falling.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
One out of every 200 package deliveries were stolen from delivery points in 2023. While it happens everyday, holiday deliveries are the biggest target for thieves or porch pirates leaving consumers with loss, frustration, and feeling violated.
Some shippers allow a required signature at delivery so if no one is home the delivery service will take it back to it’s facility and try again later or let you come pick it up and sign for it.
Door bell cameras, motion sensors and internet-enabled security cameras have their benefits but the benefit is usually realized after the theft has been committed. However, the images provided by the security devices will help with filing a police report. While not a perfect solution, Porch Pirates Bags are a good deterrent. If ordering from a retailer with a store front, have packages sent to the store for pick up.
It is incredibly frustrating and disheartening to have packages stolen. Sadly, it is an unfortunate reality that every consumer needs to be concerned about. It is possible to take steps to protect porch pirates from pirating your space.
Taking proactive measures to prevent package theft is becoming an essential part of modern home security. Simple steps, like requiring signatures for deliveries or scheduling packages for times when someone is home, can go a long way in minimizing risk.
Additionally, combining these practices with effective home security measures ensures an added layer of protection. For instance, rekeying your home can be a powerful way to enhance security, especially if you’ve recently moved or misplaced keys. By rekeying, you ensure that any old keys no longer work, reducing the chance of unauthorized access and making your property safer overall.
Security cameras and motion detectors also play a significant role in deterring theft, but they work best when part of a comprehensive security strategy. Whether it’s rekeying to secure entry points or installing high-tech systems to monitor activity, small investments in home protection can make a big difference. If you’re unsure about how rekeying works or why it’s so valuable, you can find more info here. By staying informed and combining these measures, you’ll be better equipped to keep your packages—and your home—safe from theft and unwanted intrusions.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Silicone bakeware is available for baking in various sizes, shapes, colors, and prices. Is silicone safe? Is it worth the money spent? and Is it better than traditional bakeware?
Silicone bakeware is made from a synthetic polymer created from a mixture of silicon, a naturally occurring element on the earth’s crust, combined with carbon and/or oxygen to create a rubber-like substance. The rubber-like substance can be shaped into any desired shape during manufacturing. The FDA has approve silicone as a food safe substance and it is generally considered inert and will not leach into foods. Silicone bakeware is rated safe for temperatures below freezing and up to 500֯F (always check the manufacturer’s specs). Good quality silicone should not emit any odor or discolor with use. Lower quality silicone may contain fillers or additives which may cause odor during baking and discolor over time.
Silicone bakeware is durable, non-stick, and quite flexible. A wide variety of silicone products are available for the kitchen beyond bakeware. Potholders, trivets, spatulas, whisks and other utensils, collapsible mixing bowls and strainers, ice cube trays, rolling pins and mats, and much more have become commonplace. Silicone baking pan liners provide a non-stick surface for baking sheets and jelly roll pans making for quick and easy cleanup. It can go directly from the oven to the freezer or vice versa, is microwave and dishwasher safe, and easy to clean. Since silicone is naturally non-stick no additional oil or grease calories are needed to prep the mold. However, a small spritz of cooking oil could be helpful with the more decorative molds with sharp corners or intricate designs. Another special feature of silicone is that it’s a great insulator. This means that it both cooks evenly and also cools down quickly. While metal or glass bakeware retain heat, silicone bakeware cool enough to handle within minutes after removal from the oven. Silicone bakeware can go straightfrom oven to table allowing the molds to be a serving dish, too. They can also be used for non-baked foods that require molding or even arts and crafts projects.
Silicone bakeware should always be used in conjunction with a firm surface like a cookie sheet to prevent burns and flipping baked goods to the floor. In most cases, baking and cooling time is the same as for traditional bakeware. While quite durable, beware of sharp objects and direct heat; a knife will cut through silicone and direct heat will melt it.
Silicone bakeware offers some distinct advantages and tradeoffs over the traditional alternatives, it is a personal choice. Some products may simply be better made in a traditional pan while others are better in silicone.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
‘Tis the season to be scary . . . fa, la, la, la, la, la, la . . .
Halloween has become as festive as Christmas with string of lights, blow up decorations, animated displays, fog machines, and other electric-powered decorations. Any and all create a scare-worthy porch or yard for any trick-or-treaters that dare to ring the doorbell. But like Christmas decorations, Halloween decorations can be a source of dangers that could spoil the holiday that is suppose to be fun. Remember a safe celebration is the best celebration.
In addition to festive outdoor decorations, it’s also a great time to think about how you can add a touch of seasonal flair indoors. For example, consider incorporating art prints that capture the spooky spirit of Halloween, or even some unique bathroom art that can bring a playful and eerie vibe to your space. A carefully curated piece can add a creative touch to your home decor while keeping the festive mood alive throughout the season.
So as Halloween decorating approaches, here’s some safety tips from Safe Electricity to make sure Halloween is safe and fun for all:
Carefully inspect decorations that have been stored for cracking, fraying or bare wires. Do not use if any of these problems are found as they may cause a shock or start a fire.
When replacing or purchasing decorations or cords, make sure they are Underwriters Laboratory (UL) approved and marked for outdoor use.
Unless specifically indicated, keep electrical decorations out of water or wet areas.
Be mindful of extension cords. They should not run through water on the ground. Use only cords rated for outdoor use.
Don’t overload plugs or extension cords. Be sure to use a big enough gauge extension cord to handle the decoration wattage without getting hot.
Use insulated staples to hold strings of lights or cords in place. Fasten securely.
Plug outdoor lights and decorations into GFCI outlets (ground fault circuit interrupters).
Keep cords away from walkways or anyplace where they may be a potential tripping hazard or entanglement hazard for pets.
Consider using a timer to have decorations or lights on for a specified amount of time. Turn them off while away from the home and before going to bed.
By following basic electrical safety guidelines, you will avoid real scares or dangerous tricks and keep Halloween a fun and safe event. Get more safety tips at SafeElectricity.org.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
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‘Tis the season to be scary . . . fa, la, la, la, la, la, la . . .
