Gloves, too, if you know someone with diabetes. The disease can prevent even blood flow to a person's hands and feet. Stop by in cold weather for a visit with an extra pair of socks to warm their feet or gloves for their hands. Encourage them to wear them.



After a snow storm, be sure to clear your tailpipe before starting your car. Deadly carbon monoxide can seep back into your car with disastrous results. (The same thing can happen in winter's mud, so inspect your tailpipe regularly.)


Keep cold-weather supplies in your trunk, ready for any emergency trip. Don't forget a glass scraper, extra clothing, and blankets. Perishables need to stay in a heated space. Carry them to the car and back in when you reach your destination.


If January feels dreary to you, force a few of your chilled bulbs in indoor pots. Set them by a heat source, and soon they'll begin to grow and bloom. It will feel like spring at last. Hint: Pull out and plant a new one every couple of weeks, and you'll have an unending supply of indoor color to enjoy. 


To save on your winter power bill, don't drop the thermostat. Instead, close off unused rooms and keep the basement door shut. 68-70 degrees is the mininum to avoid possible hypothermia.