. Ice is actually most slippery when the temperature is 1 or 2 degrees Celsius because a film of water can form on the ice surface.Even when the ambient temperature outside is above freezing, outdoor areas in shade or shadows can have a layer of ice that can catch you by surprise.

. People who work outdoors need to 'think safety' at all times but particularly in winter, when snow and ice buildup creates hazards on walkways, stairs, driveways and other access areas.

. If you work or spend a lot of time outdoors in winter, always wear suitable footwear with soles designed for winter conditions. Soles and heels of winter footwear should have a tread made of material that minimizes slipping under all conditions of normal use.

. If you work outdoors, ccarry a small bag of grit or sand in your jacket pocket to sprinkle on ice as needed.

. Slow down in winter and always look for changing conditions on sidewalks and other areas. A ffresh snowfall looks pretty but it can cover up hazards such as icy patches or uneven surfaces that may not be apparent. Don't take chances when steps are covered with snow or ice.

. Homeowners and businesses can have a dramatic impact on improving safety during the winter by clearing access areas after each snowfall. Don't be caught by surprise - monitor the weather and be prepared to take action to eliminate slippery conditions on your property.

. Ensure that all areas prone to ice buildup are scraped and covered with anti-slip material like sand or salt on a regular basis around your residence or business.

As part of its national public awareness campaign to improve winter safety this year, Canada Post is sponsoring a 'Clear the Way' contest across Canada. For details on how to enter the Canada Post 'Clear the Way' contest, with $10,000 in prizes available to be won, visit www.canadapost.ca/cleartheway .

(NC)-While you might think that your home insurance covers mold damage, dig a little deeper and you may discover that your policy isn't quite up to your expectations.

It's not a pretty subject, but mold damage in the home is not just an unsightly inconvenience. It can be toxic to residents, and a very costly problem to fix, which is why homeowners like to count on their insurance policies to cover this potentially expensive clean up. However, most policies will only cover mold damage as a result of water damage, and eligibility for coverage can be based on a number of factors, such as how the water damage occurred; how quickly you report it; how promptly you cleaned up the water and dried the premises; and if you followed the proper procedures.

One type of mold damage that is preventable is mold caused by excessive moisture due to improper ventilation. The more effectively you ventilate your home the better your chances of eliminating potential mold issues.

To evaluate your home for ventilation related mold issues, simply take the time to look around your home for problem spots. More importantly, go over your ventilation systems and practices with a professional to ensure that you've done all you can to keep the potential for mold damage at bay. Also, it never hurts to check with your insurance agent to understand the conditions attached to insurance claims for mold damage so you stay informed and are not faced with any surprises.

For tips or professional contacts you can talk to about keeping potential mold damage at bay, visit www.hrai.com.

(NC)-When you catch a chill, do you reach for the thermostat or a turtleneck? Energy efficiency can be as easy as donning a sweater or changing to a compact fluorescent light bulb. Simple changes can make a difference in your demand for power.

(NC)-According to the Canadian Safety Council, every year about 400 Canadians lose their lives in an accidental household fire. In fact, it's during the fall and winter seasons that the number of deaths caused by accidental household fires are at there highest.

Patrice De Luca, vice president of marketing and business development for Reliance Protectron Security Services, says one of the major reasons for this significant increase is windblown sparks from wood burning fireplaces and stoves. "You need to take every possible precaution to minimize the risks of fire when you have a natural wood burning fireplace," he added. "Fire is one of the greatest threats to your family and home. People do not realize the emotional toll a fire can take, even if there is no loss of life."

Here are safety tips to consider from Protectron's free "Saving Lives Program":

. Monitored detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide should be installed at strategic locations - your kitchen, stairwell, bedroom hallways and other high-traffic household areas. They can save lives by having operators standing by 24-7 and dispatching emergency services if required (for example if fire occurs while sleeping).

. Windblown sparks can ignite an untreated roof, so when buying, building or renovating your home, make sure the roof is fire resistant.

. Dry leaves and evergreen needles in rain gutters can catch fire, so clear your gutters regularly - especially in fire season.

. Trim back any tree limbs that are within 10 feet of your chimney and dead limbs overhanging your home, to prevent them from catching on fire.

. To prevent sparks and embers from entering and igniting your home, make sure there are screens with openings of 1?2 inch or smaller over all attic and foundation vents.

. To prevent sparks from escaping and igniting vegetation near your house, cap your chimney with a 1?2" spark arrested mesh.

.Store firewood and other combustibles away from your home, and keep the lid on your trash can.

. To make sure firefighters can find your house in case of emergency, post your address prominently.

. Maintain your landscape to eliminate dead vegetation that could catch fire, and use plants that are fire resistant.

. Have an operable fire extinguisher readily available.

. Practice an escape plan at least once a year. Make sure the whole family is involved.

. Protectron's "Saving Lives Program" is offered free to families considering home security solutions. More information on the program or on fire safety and home security, is available online at www.protectron.com.

(NC)-Kitchen designers don't typically suggest a corner sink unless you ask for it. But it's a good idea to ask as it might be right for your kitchen.

In any case, it's important to select your kitchen sink early in the kitchen design process. Do you want a large sink to accommodate big pots and pans? Then that will determine your cabinet size and design. Or, could a corner sink maximize space and create a more interesting layout? Then you need to decide before selecting cabinets as a special cabinet will be needed and you will have to consider plumbing placement as well.

A corner sink can serve as a stunning focal point in the kitchen as well as maximize work space. If your kitchen is U- or L-shaped, or generally space-challenged, then a corner kitchen sink could be an excellent solution. Putting your sink into an awkward corner that wouldn't otherwise get much use frees up valuable straight runs of counter. Depending on the layout of the rest of the room and your various work areas and appliances, a corner space might move the sink into a more practical distance from those other areas or just work better in the workspace triangle.

A variety of designs and materials are available today for corner sinks. Rectangular or triangular sinks are particularly practical and offer an original, stylish look that can upgrade a kitchen with otherwise conventional features. German sink manufacturer Blanco offers a range of European-style corner sinks in premium stainless steel and Silgranit and generally introduces new models every year. "This spring," says Alexandra Marshall, director of marketing with Blanco, "we're launching a new corner sink in Silgranit, our line of natural granite sinks. Called the Metra, it features two bowls and a drainboard in durable natural granite." The company also offers triangular-style corner sinks in stainless steel or Silgranit. "Our corner sinks are available in either premium stainless steel or Silgranit in the colour Anthracite," adds Ms. Marshall. "There are also matching coloured faucets for our granite sinks for those who want to create a unique dramatic focal point in the kitchen." A range of corner sink options can be seen online at www.blancocanada.com .