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Apache is functioning normally

The holidays are upon us, and our thoughts turn to shopping, eating and decorating. But safety is never far from our minds. Keeping the holidays fun and safe takes a little prepping and planning. Here are eight holiday safety tips to keep you and yours healthy and safe as you head into the jolliest of seasons.

1. Avoid delivery dramas

The holidays are prime time for thieves. The USPS delivers more than 28 million packages per day for the 10 days before Christmas. Here are a few holiday safety tips to keep your packages secure:

  • Install a safety camera or video doorbell
  • If there’s not one in your building, talk with your landlord or property manager about creating a dedicated package room with a door
  • Get to know your neighbors as a lot of folks are working remotely. They could keep an eye out for deliveries.
  • Add delivery instructions to packages such as leaving them in a spot where no one will notice them

Employ one or more of these tactics to keep your holiday goodies safe and out of the hands of would-be thieves.

2. Don’t fan the flames

Candles and fireplaces are romantic but can also become problems if you don’t take precautions. Keep children and pets away from burning candles and lit fires and always remember to snuff out candles before going to bed. If you do have little ones, consider using battery-operated candles and flameless tea lights for that warm glow.

If you want to make a fire, ensure your fireplace flue is open and keep the damper open until the fire is out. Clear away any flammable clutter — books, magazines, draperies, furniture — before lighting the fire. Keep a screen in front of the fireplace at all times. Make sure the fire is completely out before you go to bed or leave the house.

While the risk of fire attributed to Christmas trees is small — about 160 fires (out of roughly 358,500 home fires) according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — it’s still something you should consider. Most of those fires involve real trees, which is why many apartment buildings do not allow tenants to use living trees for the holiday (check your lease agreement or with your property manager or landlord before dragging home a tree from the local scouts).

Keep your Christmas tree at least three feet from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Make sure you keep up with the watering. There’s nothing worse than stepping with your bare feet on dry, spiky needles — except those dry, spiky needles catching on fire.

Unplug the lights if you leave the house and before you go to sleep. If you purchase an artificial tree, make sure it has a fire-retardant label. And if you have a metallic tree, never decorate it with electric lights. If the lights are faulty, the tree can become charged and anyone touching it could be electrocuted.

And this might be the biggest holiday safety tip of them all: Once the holidays are over, don’t wait too long to take down your tree and lights. Not only will it be safer, but it will make your neighbors happy.

3. Tame your travel troubles

If you’re heading out of town for the holidays, there’s a lot to think about beyond directions for getting over the river and through the woods.

Make sure your car has a roadside emergency kit that includes items such as blankets, a first aid kit, a tool kit, a small shovel, a flashlight and extra batteries. Keep a few gallons of water on hand.

Holiday gatherings are what the holidays are all about, and they often involve alcohol. Seems like this holiday safety tip should be a no-brainer, but, always name a designated driver or take an Uber, Lyft or taxi home.

We’re still facing the effects of the pandemic. When you stop at roadside facilities, wear masks and avoid crowds. The CDC still recommends staying at least six feet from people who are not traveling with you. Wash your hands often.

4. Ditch your decorating dilemmas

From fires to choking to cuts and poisoning, decorating your home for the holidays is a minefield of potential hazards.

That box of old decorations may no longer be safe: broken lights and wires are an electrical hazard; older tinsel might be lead-based; aging angel hair is abrasive to your skin. And breathing in spray-on artificial snow can cause everything from a headache and nausea to difficulty walking and heart palpitations.

Read the labels for proper use of these products or update your box of decorations with some newer products that have safety labels from an independent testing laboratory.

Take extra precautions if there will be children around. To you it’s a decoration, but to them, the colorful baubles look like candy. Keep trimmings out of reach and avoid those that are easily breakable or sharp.

And take care when decorating. Remember that chairs are not ladders. There are about 200 decorating-related injuries every holiday season — usually involving a fall.

5. Lose lighting liabilities

With its tangle of wires, peering into your holiday decorating box is like looking into a snake pit. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests you check light strings for broken bulbs, frayed wires, cracked sockets and loose connections. Replace damaged ones and don’t use more than three standard-size sets of lights for each extension cord. Keep “bubbling” lights away from children. These lights have a chemical that’s hazardous if ingested.

Here’s a simple holiday safety tip for your lights: If you’re hanging lights outside, make sure they’re securely fastened to the house, trees or walls to protect them from wind damage.

6. Set shopping safeguards

Don’t forget that thieves also have holiday wish lists, and they don’t go on vacation between Christmas and New Year. (Although they are less active on Thanksgiving.) You don’t want to make it easy for them, so keep these holiday safety tips in mind when you’re shopping.

If you’re out with your car, park in a well-lit area and stow any purchases in the trunk. Pay attention to your surroundings. Thieves often troll parking lots and wait for the right moment — like after you’ve unloaded your packages and you head back into the mall. Be sure to lock your car and don’t leave your fob behind.

Use electronic payments as much as possible, and don’t carry around too much cash. Check your bank statements regularly to make sure your purchases and only your purchases are accurately recorded.

If you’re shopping online, be alert for scams. Make sure you’re on a reputable site before you hand over your credit card number. (And, if you can, use a credit card that’s designated for your online purchases.) This holiday safety tip should be followed all year round: When you get emails announcing great deals, don’t click on any links. Check out sites separately and never through an unsolicited email.

7. Cut out cooking calamities

Cooking fires top the list of residential fires, and according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, three times the average number of daily cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving Day (about 1,700 each year). For fire safety, always have a fire extinguisher on hand and use it to smother flames (don’t use flour or water). Remember to turn pot handles toward the back of the stove, and don’t wear loose clothing while you cook.

Frying turkeys has become increasingly popular at holiday time. The NFPA reports that these deep fryers cause an average of five deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year. If you use one, don’t leave it unattended and don’t overfill it. Wear safety goggles, closed-toed shoes and use the fryer outdoors, making sure it’s far from flammable materials.

Practice good food safety. Wash your hands often, separate raw meat from produce, cook all meat to the right temperature and refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving.

8. Consider holiday safety tips for pets

The holidays are exciting but dangerous for pets. They love shiny objects. Lots of guests “accidentally” share food with them. Beware of the following, especially:

  • Tinsel: It’s not poisonous, but if your dog or cat eats it, the tinsel can get stuck in their teeth or stomach. It may cut or bunch up in their intestines. If you think your pet had a tousle with tinsel, get your pet to the vet’s office right away.
  • Toxic foods: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, currants and macadamia nuts can all be toxic to both cats and dogs. The iKibble app offers information on what foods are toxic for dogs, as well as the general healthiness of foods.
  • Mistletoe and holly: If your pet eats these, they may get diarrhea and vomit. Never a good look on Christmas morning. Feature these plants in places your animals can’t reach.
  • “Adult” party substances: A jolly night for you and your friends is downright dangerous to your pets. Keep alcoholic beverages and marijuana (now legal for recreational use in 19 states) stowed away. Clean up anything that might have hit the floor. No one likes a hangover, and you certainly don’t want to spend precious holiday time off at the emergency vet’s office.

Keep your furry friends in mind as you set up your holiday decorations. They want happiness and healthiness this year, too.

Take extra precautions by following these holiday safety tips

With COVID still an issue, you’ve got an additional layer of concern this year. We’re all looking forward to gathering in person, but we still need to be cautious. Schedule smaller gatherings. Ask people about their vaccination status and determine what works for you. Wear a mask when you’re in a crowd and shop online if you’re uncomfortable being among the throngs of shoppers.

Be healthy, be safe and happy holidays to all.

Stacey Freed is an award-winning writer and former senior editor for Remodeling, a trade publication focused on the business of the remodeling and construction industry. As an independent writer, she continues to write about the building, design, architecture and housing industries. Her work has appeared in Better Homes and Gardens and USA Today special interest publications, Realtor magazine, This Old House, Professional Builder and online at AARP, Forbes.com, House Logic and Sweeten.com among other places.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

The Motor City suburbs are nothing to scoff at.

Detroit has long been the heart of American automotive innovation. Yet, beyond the city’s industrial accomplishments lies a network of suburbs, each presenting its own unique character and allure.

From serene lakeside communities to bustling economic hubs, these suburbs provide a wide range of experiences for locals of all walks of life. This article delves into the distinct attributes of the top Detroit suburbs, spotlighting what makes each of them a highly coveted place to call home.

  • Population: 57,953
  • Average age: 35.3
  • Median household income: $87,316
  • Average commute time: 24.5 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,112
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,305

Undeniably one of the premier Detroit suburbs, Royal Oak has firmly established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of urban conveniences with suburban charm. Its downtown is made up of a collection of unique shops, restaurants and open areas, making it a popular spot for all. Additionally, Royal Oak’s dedication to nature, exemplified by the expansive Detroit Zoo and numerous parks, provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle.

Three great apartment complexes in Royal Oak

What sets Royal Oak apart from other Detroit suburbs is its seamless combination of history and modernity. Architecturally diverse homes speak to its rich history, while progressive initiatives like local farmers markets and community events highlight the suburb’s forward-thinking spirit.

  • Population: 19,109
  • Average age: 34.8
  • Median household income: $79,181
  • Average commute time: 25.5 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,200
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,350

Situated just north of Detroit, Ferndale stands out as one of the most appealing Detroit suburbs, effortlessly marrying modern sensibilities with an authentic hometown feel. Its walkable downtown area is dotted with an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. This pedestrian-friendly hub is unlike many suburban settings, making it easy for residents to connect, shop and dine without traveling far from home.

Three great apartment complexes in Ferndale

Ferndale’s appeal doesn’t stop at its bustling streets; the community is genuinely inclusive, welcoming people from all walks of life. Many Detroit suburbs have their strengths, but Ferndale’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment truly sets it apart.

  • Population: 21,755
  • Average age: 41.5
  • Median household income: $137,907
  • Average commute time: 21.8 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,422
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,600

One of the more upscale Detroit suburbs, Birmingham is an undeniably refined place to call home. Its downtown showcases high-end boutiques, locally loved restaurants and beautiful entertainment venues, positioning it as a premium spot for relaxation and recreation.

Three great apartment complexes in Birmingham

Beyond its tangible amenities, Birmingham’s commitment to quality education and safety elevates its status among Detroit suburbs. With some of the top-rated schools in the state and a proactive approach to maintaining a secure environment, residents can always find peace of mind in this coveted enclave.

  • Population: 86,836
  • Average age: 42.1
  • Median household income: $107,550
  • Average commute time: 25.5 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,456
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,196

Home to numerous corporate headquarters and businesses, Troy has earned its reputation as a vital economic hub. Yet, even amidst its business-centric atmosphere, Troy ensures that residents enjoy a high quality of life. The city has a mix of shops, including the renowned Somerset Collection mall, where high-end brands and restaurants are all within arm’s reach.

Three great apartment complexes in Troy

But there’s more to this Detroit suburb than just commerce. Troy is a haven for families, thanks to its well-respected school system, which consistently ranks among Michigan’s best. Wide open green spaces and plenty of events dot the community calendar each year. As one of the Detroit suburbs that merges economic opportunity with a comfortable living environment.

  • Population: 5,584
  • Average age: 47.6
  • Median household income: $125,909
  • Average commute time: 24.6 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,024
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,370

A true gem among Detroit suburbs, Grosse Pointe radiates an air of historic elegance coupled with serene lakeside living. Situated along the shores of Lake St. Clair, it offers residents breathtaking views and a variety of water-based activities. The tree-canopied streets, punctuated by stately homes and manicured lawns, narrate stories of architectural grandeur and a charmed suburban life.

Three great apartment complexes near Grosse Pointe

Education and community are paramount in Grosse Pointe. It is home to some of the most esteemed educational institutions in the area, reflecting a community deeply invested in fostering academic excellence. As Detroit suburbs go, Grosse Pointe effortlessly presents a harmonious blend of historic charm, modern comfort and lakeside allure, making it a top choice for discerning suburbanites.

  • Population: 6,074
  • Average age: 46.8
  • Median household income: $132,568
  • Average commute time: 28.5 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,593
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,826

Situated to the west of Detroit, Northville stands out. The town’s heart is marked by its well-preserved Victorian architecture and a classic downtown area with unique boutiques, cafes and a community-driven events calendar. Iconic landmarks, such as the clock tower and Mill Race Village, are reminders of Northville’s past, while current attractions ensure residents always have the opportunity to experience the best of both worlds.

Three great apartment complexes in Northville

One of Northville’s most notable attributes is its commitment to education and community engagement. The suburb’s schools are renowned for their high standards and holistic development approach. Plenty of parks, walking trails and nature reserves are sprinkled throughout the area, ensuring every local always has easy access to a calming outdoor escape.

  • Population: 15,085
  • Average age: 37.3
  • Median household income: $96,993
  • Average commute time: 23.1 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,150
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,285

Among the most notable Detroit suburbs, Berkley has a unique blend of small-town charm and convenient access to metropolitan amenities. Its main thoroughfare is lined with independent boutiques, small restaurants and local businesses. The streets of Berkley are characterized by well-maintained homes, with a mixture of classic and modern, illustrating the suburb’s evolution while retaining its foundational character.

Three great apartment complexes near Berkley

Berkley’s schools are consistently recognized for their commitment to excellence, and the myriad parks and other free community amenities ensure that residents have the opportunity and the space required to enjoy suburban life at its finest.

  • Population: 11,284
  • Average age: 42.1
  • Median household income: $76,575
  • Average commute time: 23.0 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,095
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,465

While it may be smaller in size compared to some neighboring suburbs, Clawson packs a punch with its lively downtown. Quaint shops, cool cafes and locally owned businesses create an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is refreshing, embodying the essence of small-town charm while remaining close to big-city conveniences.

Three great apartment complexes in Clawson

Beyond the initial appeal, Clawson is a suburb deeply rooted in community values and togetherness. Numerous events, from the famed Fourth of July celebration to community-centric festivals, emphasize the suburb’s dedication to fostering a sense of belonging among its residents. Clawson’s emphasis on community connectedness and its warm, friendly ambiance make it a standout choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of convenience and camaraderie.

  • Population: 93,018
  • Average age: 39.8
  • Median household income: $104,535
  • Average commute time: 27.4 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,196
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,521

Canton stands out as a suburb that masterfully combines the calm of residential living with a healthy selection of amenities. Located to the west of Detroit, Canton’s expansive footprint is packed with shops, community rec facilities and a ton of restaurants.

Three great apartment complexes in Canton

What further distinguishes Canton from other Detroit suburbs is its commitment to fostering a community-oriented environment. The suburb is home to parks and a well-maintained community center that regularly hosts events, sports and educational programs for all age groups.

  • Population: 28,238
  • Average age: 40.5
  • Median household income: $58,537
  • Average commute time: 24.5 minutes
  • One-bedroom average rent: $987
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,137

Often referred to as the “City of Progress,” Madison Heights is characterized by its accessibility to major highways, making commutes and connectivity to the city seamless. The commercial corridors of Madison Heights brim with plenty of outlets, restaurants and other attractions for all, so everyone has everything they need close to home.

Three great apartment complexes in Madison Heights

The emphasis on family-friendly attractions, like the serene Red Oaks Nature Center, provides residents with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Beyond that, Madison Heights’s community spirit is palpable through its frequent local events, neighborhood initiatives and active civic organizations.

Settle down in the Detroit suburbs

As Detroit continues its renaissance, its suburbs stand as a testament to the diverse and thriving communities that surround this iconic city, each contributing its unique flavor to the broader mosaic of the Motor City region.

Whether you’re heading to the tree-lined streets of Royal Oak or the communal vibe of Clawson, there’s an apartment in the Detroit suburbs that’s perfect for you. All you have to do is find it.

A native of the northern suburbs of Chicago, Carson made his way to the South to attend Wofford College where he received his BA in English. After working as a copywriter for a couple of boutique marketing agencies in South Carolina, he made the move to Atlanta and quickly joined the Rent. team as a content marketing coordinator. When he’s off the clock, you can find Carson reading in a park, hunting down a great cup of coffee or hanging out with his dogs.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Adopting a rescue or shelter dog doesn’t just give a needy animal a home. It can provide a playmate for your kids, a jogging buddy for you and a loyal companion for everyone to cuddle with on the couch. But a new pet can also come with unexpected vet bills, which is why you might want to consider pet insurance.

Pet insurance policies can help pay for treatment if your furry friend gets sick or hurt. In some cases, they may also cover vaccinations and other routine care. Here’s how to decide whether pet insurance is right for your rescue dog.

Estimate the cost of vet care

It’s impossible to know which medical problems a given pet may have in the future. However, researching the breeds you’re interested in can help you get a sense of which health conditions are most likely to crop up, says Dr. Antonio DeMarco, chief medical officer at GoodVets, a chain of animal hospitals with locations across the U.S. Some of these conditions can be both serious and expensive to treat, he says.

For example, large-breed dogs like golden and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, a deformity of the hip joint. Some dogs may need surgery to treat it, costing thousands of dollars.

A local vet can advise you on potential health concerns and how much it might cost to manage them. They can also help you estimate the price of routine care.

Understand pet insurance

Pet insurance likely won’t reimburse every dollar you spend at the vet. For example, most plans won’t cover pre-existing conditions that your dog had before you bought the policy. So if you adopt a senior dog with diabetes, you’ll need to pay for the treatment yourself.

For the same reason, you can’t simply wait to get a policy until your vet diagnoses an injury or illness. DeMarco has had pet owners ask him if they can buy insurance after their dog tears an ACL. “[You] sure can, but this isn’t covered,” he tells them.

Most pet insurance plans pay to treat illnesses and injuries but won’t help with routine care unless you buy extra coverage. That coverage may be worth adding for certain dogs, says Maureen Sosa, director of pet support at the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C. Smaller dogs are more prone to dental disease and benefit from regular cleanings, which wellness plans can help pay for.

When shopping for pet insurance, check for deductibles and copays. Say your plan will pay 80% of your expenses after you’ve met the $500 annual deductible. That means you’d have to spend $500 on your pet’s treatment in a given year before your plan would start reimbursing you.

Your policy may also have a maximum payout limit, such as $5,000 or $10,000 per year.

Get pet insurance quotes

The average cost of accident and illness coverage for a dog is about $640 per year, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association. However, you might pay more or less depending on where you live, the coverage options you choose and the breed and age of your dog.

You can get online quotes from most pet insurance providers. Check rates from at least three companies to make sure you’re getting the best price for the coverage you want.

Pet insurance isn’t worth the cost for every rescue dog. Policies may be prohibitively expensive for older dogs, especially if they already have chronic conditions that the policy won’t cover. In these cases, you may be better off skipping insurance and setting up an emergency fund for vet expenses.

Consider your peace of mind

One of the biggest benefits of pet insurance is avoiding heart-breaking financial decisions. Sosa has seen owners forced to surrender pets because they couldn’t afford to treat their medical conditions. “The economy is in a really bad place,” she says. “That’s trickling down and affecting what people are able to afford.”

Even worse, some owners may have to euthanize their dogs if the treatment for a serious condition is simply too expensive, DeMarco says. “As veterinarians, that is the worst-case scenario for us.”

You may go years without having to use your pet insurance. But in a crisis, having the policy can give you peace of mind, DeMarco says. You’ll know that “if those situations arise, you’re going to be able to handle them financially and not have to make decisions based on finances rather than what’s best for your animal.”

This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Watch out, pumpkin.

This fall, the rising botanical décor darling is… an artichoke.

Thistles, chickens, mushrooms and mermaids are among the trending themes for fall, at least in Etsy’s corner of retail. Etsy looked at what people are typing in the search bar. Combined with industry forecasting and social media trends, the company created a guide to fall trends. While the report ranges from style (opal charm bracelets are hot) to special occasions (blush pink wedding dresses are popular), read on for fall home décor trends with examples from Lancaster County makers and businesses.



Chicken products, like this personalized mug, have been popular for Zookaboo.


Zookaboo


Barnyard imagery

Blame Carrie Underwood for at least some of the chickens you spot this fall. The country singer posted a selfie on Instagram earlier this year wearing an olive sweatshirt decorated with chickens. “Makes nice living… Lots of fancy clothes in closet… Wears chicken sweats she bought off Etsy…” she wrote in the caption.

Searches for “chicken sweatshirt” soared.

Farm scene-inspired clothing and décor leans heavily on chickens as well as cows and barns.

This personalized chicken mug has been a hot seller for Zookaboo in New Holland, says owner Michele Zook.



Chicken products, like these laser-cut earrings, have been popular for Wilder Mind Designs Co.


Wilder Mind Designs Co.


Laser-cut chicken ornaments and earrings from Wilder Mind Designs, Lancaster, have been popular this year as well, says owner Trista Ambs.



Throwback Halloween finds, like this 1920s Halloween bee costume from Guermantes Vintage, are a rising fall trend.


Guermantes Vintage


Throwback Halloween

Vintage Halloween fans might turn to secondhand for sustainability, for an upcycled project or for nostalgia.

Guermantes Vintage’s closet in Lancaster (run by Janine D’Agati) includes rare handmade costumes like two from the 1920s. The red cotton dress is appliqued with bats, black cats and witches on broomsticks. The twin bee costumes are made of delicate crepe paper on black cotton. The hats have bendable wire antenna.



Vintage Culture Shop has vintage Halloween items, including this vintage postcard from the 1910s.


Vintage Culture Shop


Vintage Culture Shop, Lancaster Township, had four circa-1955 Weeny Witch party booklets filled with recipes and directions on how to make a witch diorama centerpiece from hot dogs. They sold out quickly, says co-owner Karen Foerstel.

The Lancaster Township business still has other vintage Halloween items available, including a 1910s postcard with a hand-written invitation to a long-ago Halloween party asking guests “be sure and mask.”

Mary Charles Folk Art call her paintings and prints whimsical, enchanting and heartwarming. Some of the Lancaster artist’s woodland scenes feature mushrooms, including “Toadstool Cottage” and “The Getaway.”



Mushroom art, like this design, has been popular for Jain Makes Art.


Jain Makes Art


Mushrooms also sprout on some of Jain Falcon’s artwork. The Lancaster artist prints her artwork on greeting cards, notebooks, stickers, tote bags as well as prints.



Speckled textured ceramics, like this mug made by Deez Things Art, are a rising fall trend.


Deez Things Art


Earthy ceramics

For ceramics, perfectly smooth surfaces aren’t a must. “Pieces spotlighting terracotta, speckled textures, and uneven glazes that reveal the natural components and handwork are growing in popularity,” Etsy reports.

Speckled ceramic mugs are part of the inventory of Deez Things Art. Michael Diesner makes them at his Rapho Township home during summer breaks from teaching.

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