11/25/12

Invasive insects have been wiping out tree species all over the country by creating serpentinelike tunnels inside the tree, making it weak and susceptible to breakage and death. In Pennsylvania, the emerald ash borer insect is close to wiping out more than 300 million ash trees. If a tree falls on your property and you decide to turn it into firewood, use it ONLY at your own home. Do not share infected wood with neighbors, and especially don’t bring any if you go camping. In some states, it is illegal to move any firewood from trees, logs, limbs, branches and roots from state to state.

11/24/12

Lots of communities celebrate the fall season by hosting bonfires where a large pile of wood is collected and lit on fire. Or maybe you have an outdoor fire pit that you can’t wait to light up one cold night. Before you strike a match, though, be sure to look to see if any wild animals thought your woodpile would be a good place to call home. Many small animals like chipmunks, squirrels and field mice could be in the woodpile without you knowing it. Poke around and make loud noises to see if any animals are lurking inside.

11/23/12

Many apartments have window air conditioning units that can be difficult to remove when not in use during the fall and winter months. The next best thing to prevent cold air from seeping indoors through the unit is to cover it. Home improvement stores sell inexpensive insulated covers that fit snugly on the inside and exterior part of the air conditioner. These covers are waterproof, snowproof and effectively block any drafts to keep your room safe from cold air.