A recent press release from the animal sciences department at Purdue University has one thing to tell you: Don't panic and buy chickens for your yard. Recent shortages in eggs and meat have caused an uptick in people purchasing chicks to raise in their backyard. But scientists at the university warn many people are blindly buying chicks, with no understanding of how to raise the animals. For example, it can take six months for a chick to mature and start to lay eggs. And the animals are very dependent on humans for shelter, food and water, which many people are not equipped to provide.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When there is too much dust and dander in the air and on your furniture, it can provoke an allergic reaction that can range from minor sniffles to flu-like symptoms. Take the time to give your upholstery and mattresses a good cleaning with your vacuum. Use the handheld attachment to vacuum up dust from inside crevices, on cushions and on the backs of upholstered furniture. Are the cases or slipcovers machine-washable? Strip the furniture and give it all a good wash and dry. Vacuum bare mattresses and wipe them down with a damp (not soaking) towel and allow to dry before dressing the bed again.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If there's a lot of sauteing, frying and cooking going on in your kitchen, do just one thing: Make sure your stove is working and venting properly. A gas range gives off a small amount of carbon monoxide (CO), which is perfectly normal and won't get you sick. But too much CO, and you could be in for trouble. Take a look at the flames on your cooktop: Are they yellow-tipped flames? That means the CO levels are too high and the burners need to be fixed. And if you have an exhaust fan, use it: It removes excess CO, particulates and smoke. Be sure the exhaust fan filters are clean and also properly installed.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION