Does Winter Get You Down? It May be More than Just the Weather

Most of us rue the end of summer—sunny days, mild nights, vacations, the beach, ball games, picnics and so much more. Although fall and winter bring holidays, the warmth of a fireplace and football (actual and fantasy), for many people the winter months mark the return of seasonal depression. It’s known in medical circles as […]

Preventing West Nile Virus

With mosquito season almost here, it’s important to take precautions against a potentially serious illness—West Nile virus. This widespread disease can be a threat to humans, animals and several species of birds in the U.S., particularly during the summer through late fall when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquitoes bite infected animals and then transmit the […]

Reaching Others When Disasters Strike

The first thing many of us do during or immediately following a natural disaster is to call family and friends. Unfortunately, in the minutes and hours after a disaster, overloaded cell phone networks can make it difficult—if not impossible—to reach others. While there is no guarantee, the following tips can increase your chances of getting […]

Mold Management

It’s a problem man has battled since the dawn of time—controlling mold. It lurks in the corners and can cause major damage and nasty health issues. As long as moisture and oxygen are present, mold can grow indoors or out on virtually any organic substance, including wood, paper, carpet, insulation and food. When excessive moisture […]

Website Names Recalled Products

Is your dishwasher in danger of catching fire? Do the outdoor lighting fixtures in your community pose a shock hazard? Will the peanut butter in your pantry send you to the hospital? Every year in the United States, countless products ranging from power tools to plush toys are recalled by manufacturers. In the first half […]

Safe Summer Fun

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children recommends that parents and guardians take action to keep their children safe during both structured and unstructured summer activities. The first step is to talk to your children. Kids need to know: Neighborhood boundaries and whose homes they may visit. Whom to call and where to go […]

Tips for Safe Swimming

Nothing says summer vacation like warm days spent at the pool or a quick weekend retreat to the beach. Whether you’re jumping waves in the ocean or splashing around in a pool, these tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center will help keep you and your family safe this summer: Teach your kids to swim. […]

Organic or Conventional? Smarter Shopping, Better Health

Until recently, organic produce was found mainly in home gardens, quaint farmers’ markets and specialty health food stores. Over the past few years, however, the heightened eco-consciousness of the green movement and health concerns about chemicals used in conventional farming have led to consumer demand for fruits and vegetables grown without synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilizers, […]