Consumer Corner
6 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22503/16691-detail-intro-image.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
(Family Features) Winter weather, while often beautiful, can prove challenging for homeowners. Snow and ice accumulation can cause damage or disruption to many components of homes and properties, including heating systems and appliances, communication and access to and from property.
Utilizing a reliable, efficient and affordable energy source like propane can help power critical systems – home heating, cooktops, ovens, fireplaces, boilers and water heaters. Because propane is stored on-site, it’s resilient enough to withstand some of the dangers of winter weather, such as power outages that interrupt access to the electric grid. Available in a variety of capacities to fit the needs of any size home, propane-powered generators can provide supplemental power in as little as 10 seconds after an electrical grid failure, ensuring vital systems like home heating, cooking and smoke and fire detection systems are not interrupted when you need them the most.
Consider these tips from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council to help prepare your family and home for winter weather and find more resources at Propane.com.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22507/16691-detail-image-embed1.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Get to Know Your Propane System
If you’re unfamiliar with your propane system, take a few minutes to review it. Identify core components, including the tank, regulators, meter, piping and supply valves, as well as any appliance vents. Locate the main gas supply valve in case you need to turn off the propane in the event of an emergency. Call a propane professional to inspect the system before restoring it.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22506/16691-detail-image-embed2.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Ensure an Adequate Supply of Propane
Establish a regular delivery schedule with your propane provider – particularly during the winter months – or call to schedule a delivery when the tank gauge reads 30% to give your provider enough time to make a delivery and ensure you have an adequate supply in your tank.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22508/16691-detail-image-embed3.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Mark Your Tank
Especially if your home’s propane tank is buried, be sure to mark its location with a brightly colored stake or flag taller than the maximum anticipated snow depth. This will help propane suppliers easily locate your tank, ensuring they can refill it during scheduled appointments.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22501/16691-detail-image-embed4.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Ready Your Furnace
If it’s time to upgrade your home’s climate control system, it’s a smart idea to do your homework and explore all options. Consider propane-powered furnaces, which last 50% longer than electric heat pumps for a lower lifetime investment. Propane furnaces also provide warmer air than other heat sources (115-125 F), are less impacted by outdoor temperatures and produce 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric furnaces and 12% less than fuel oil furnaces.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22504/16691-detail-image-embed5.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Take Advantage of Your Fireplace
The warm glow of a fire isn’t only comforting; it can be a practical and effective way to increase the heat inside your home. Not only do propane fireplaces offer 5-6 times the heating capacity of electric fireplaces, they’re also more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, convenient to use and easier to install than woodburning models. They also emit less soot and other emissions.
![](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/22502/16691-detail-image-embed6.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
Install Gas and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors can provide you and your family with additional peace of mind. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location and maintenance.
SOURCE:
Propane Education & Research Council
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Automotive
Toyota Issues Safety Recall for 2022-2023 Tundra and Lexus LX Vehicles
PLANO, Texas (May 30, 2024) — Toyota has announced a safety recall affecting certain model year 2022-2023 Toyota Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles in North America. Approximately 102,000 vehicles, including both Toyota and Lexus brands, are involved in this recall across the United States.
![Safety Recall](https://i0.wp.com/stmdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-5.png?resize=740%2C423&ssl=1)
What’s the Issue?
The recall comes as a result of a manufacturing oversight where machining debris may not have been adequately cleared from the engine during production. In the affected vehicles, this debris can lead to several serious issues, including:
- Engine knocking
- Rough engine operation
- Engine failure to start
- Loss of motive power
The most concerning of these issues is the potential loss of motive power while driving at higher speeds, which significantly increases the risk of a crash.
What Will Toyota Do?
To address this issue, Toyota and Lexus dealers will replace the affected engines with new ones at no cost to customers. This recall is a proactive measure to ensure the safety and reliability of these vehicles.
Customer Notifications
Toyota plans to notify affected customers by late July 2024. If you own one of the impacted vehicles, it’s essential to stay informed about this recall to ensure your safety on the road.
How to Check If Your Vehicle is Affected
If you own a Toyota Tundra or Lexus LX and want to see if your vehicle is included in this safety recall, you can visit Toyota.com/recall or nhtsa.gov/recalls. Simply enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information to check your vehicle’s status.
Need Assistance?
For any further questions or concerns, Toyota customer support is available through the Toyota Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-331-4331 for Toyota vehicles. For Lexus owners, support can be reached at 1-800-255-3987.
Safety recalls are a crucial part of the automotive industry, ensuring that potential issues are addressed before they lead to accidents. If you own one of the affected Toyota or Lexus vehicles, be sure to take action and stay updated on this important recall to keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road.
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/stories-this-moment
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Consumer Corner
5 Ways to be Environmentally Conscious at Home
![environmentally conscious](https://i0.wp.com/d2z0g7klazfonw.cloudfront.net/production/additional_images/23284/15602_VID_5_Ways_to_be_Environmentally_Conscious_at_Home_Detail_Intro_Image.jpg?w=740&ssl=1)
5 Ways to Be Environmentally Conscious at Home
(Family Features) Being environmentally conscious doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, by making simple changes to your daily routine, you can make a positive impact on the planet while also saving money and living a more sustainable lifestyle.
Consider these practical ways to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations right from the comforts of your own home.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This classic mantra is still relevant today. By reducing the amount of waste you produce, reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic and glass, you can help minimize the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans. Composting food scraps and avoiding single-use plastic items like water bottles and shopping bags can also help reduce your impact on the environment.
Conserve Energy: One of the biggest contributors to climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. Simple steps like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, adjusting your thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs and using energy-efficient lightbulbs and appliances can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run.
Save Water: Water is a precious resource, and it’s important to use it wisely. Simple actions like fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, using the dishwasher or washing machine only when full and watering your garden in the early morning or late evening can help conserve water and protect the water supply. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to further reduce water usage.
Choose Sustainable Products: When shopping for household items, look for products made from sustainable materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. Choosing products with minimal packaging or opting for eco-friendly alternatives can help reduce waste.
Grow Your Own Food: If you have the space, consider starting a small garden at home. Growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs allows you to enjoy fresh, organic produce while also reducing the carbon footprint of your food by cutting out the transportation and packaging involved in store-bought produce.
Find more tips for going green at home at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Watch video to find out how!
SOURCE:
eLivingToday.com
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Consumer Corner
Important Recall Notice: Wiers Farm, Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of Cucumbers Due to Listeria Concerns
Wiers Farm recalls cucumbers due to Listeria risk. Discard affected products immediately.
In a decisive move to ensure consumer safety, Wiers Farm, Inc., a respected distributor based in Willard, OH, has announced a voluntary recall of select cucumber products over concerns of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall specifically targets a limited number of whole and bagged salad cucumbers, sourced from out of state and distributed under the Wiers Farm brand.
Recall Details
Date of Announcement: July 12, 2024
FDA Publish Date: July 16, 2024
Product Types: Whole cucumbers and 2 lb bagged salad cucumbers
Pack Dates: June 5, 2024 (whole cucumbers), June 5 and 6, 2024 (salad cucumbers)
Distribution: Select Walmart stores in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio
Reason for Recall
The potential for contamination was identified through routine sampling by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). While no illnesses or customer complaints have been reported to date, Wiers Farm is proceeding with the utmost caution to safeguard its customers.
![](https://i1.wp.com/stmdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image_4_7-774x1024.png?ssl=1)
![cucumbers](https://i0.wp.com/stmdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image_3_9-774x1024.png?ssl=1)
![cucumbers](https://i2.wp.com/stmdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image_2_18-771x1024.png?ssl=1)
![cucumbers](https://i0.wp.com/stmdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image_1_27-771x1024.png?ssl=1)
About Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria capable of causing the serious infection known as listeriosis. It primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and adults with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. If you have consumed any of the recalled products and are experiencing these symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly. More information about Listeria can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
Product Identification
Whole Cucumbers: Approximately 1.5-2.5 inches in diameter and 6-9 inches in length
Bagged Salad Cucumers: Packaged in a clear bag with a blue base, marked with the specified pack dates
Consumer Action
Consumers in possession of the affected cucumbers are urged not to consume them. Even though the products are past their shelf life and likely out of distribution, if you still have them, please safely dispose of them immediately. Questions or concerns can be addressed by contacting Wiers Farm customer care at (419) 933-2161 or via email at customercare@wiersfarm.com.
Company Statement
Wiers Farm has expressed its commitment to the highest standards of food safety and health. “We have taken immediate steps to address this isolated incident and are collaborating closely with the Ohio Department other traceability data to ensure that the product in question is swiftly and effectively removed from all channels,” stated a company spokesperson.
Summary
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in the food distribution process. Wiers Farm’s proactive steps in recalling potentially affected products underscore their dedication to consumer safety and health standards. Consumers are advised to follow recall instructions and dispose of any questionable products to ensure health and safety.
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Follow FDA
- Follow@US_FDAm on X
- FollowFDAon Facebook
- Follow@FDAn recalls on X
- Recent Recalled Product Photos on FDA’s Flickr Photostream
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
-
Urbanism11 months ago
Signal Hill, California: A Historic Enclave Surrounded by Long Beach
-
News1 year ago
Diana Gregory Talks to us about Diana Gregory’s Outreach Services
-
Senior Pickleball Report1 year ago
ACE PICKLEBALL CLUB TO DEBUT THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED INDOOR PICKLEBALL FRANCHISES IN THE US, IN EARLY 2023
-
Entertainment2 years ago
The Absolute Most Comfortable Pickleball Shoe I’ve Ever Worn!
-
Travel1 year ago
Unique Experiences at the CitizenM
-
Automotive1 year ago
2023 Nissan Sentra pricing starts at $19,950
-
STM Blog1 year ago
World Naked Gardening Day: Celebrating Body Acceptance and Nature
-
Senior Pickleball Report1 year ago
“THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS OF PICKLEBALL” – VOTING OPEN