Labor Day Grilling Safety Tips

Labor Day is coming up on September 5! We usually associate Labor Day with a barbecue; so here are some grill safety tips to consider from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to have a fun and safe Labor Day.

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• Grills should only be used outside

For Propane Grills:

• Check all major connection points between the gas tank hose and the regulator and cylinder and where the hose connects to burners. Tighten if loose.
• Check gas tank hose for leaks. Do not use if there are leaks.
• If you smell gas while cooking, turn off gas tank and burners

For Charcoal Grills:

• If using starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid
• Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to fire
• When finished grilling, let coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container

For more detailed information on these tips, visit the NFPA blog here.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Unfortunately in Long Beach, fireworks are illegal, but if you live in a city where fireworks are allowed or plan to partake in fireworks this 4th of July, here are some firework safety tips from the National Council on Firework Safety.

Photo Credit: Will, de Lyon via Compfight cc

• Only use fireworks outdoors free of overhead obstructions and away from dry grass or other flammable materials.
• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Never give fireworks to young children.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Dispose of spent product by wetting it down and place it in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until morning.

Keeping these tips in mind to ensure a fun and safe 4th of July!

Valentine's Day Ideas with Your Little Ones!

This Valentine's Day, you many want to try some DIY Valentine ideas with the kids rather than the traditional Valentine's Day card and piece of candy. This will make for great Valentines they can hand out to their friends and classmates, and the kids will enjoy making them.

Here are just a few of our favorites!

"Will zoo be mine?"

Image Source and Idea: The Blue Robbin Cottage

"You make my heart pop!"

Image Source: Love Stitched

"Happy Valentine's Day Love Bug!"

Image Source and Idea: Dandee Designs

"Our class would knot be the same without you!"

Image Source and Idea: Dandee Designs

Aren't they cute? You can find many more ideas at Pop Sugar here!

Be Green: 9 Ways to Recycle Your Christmas Tree

Now that the holiday season is coming to an end, what will you do with your Christmas tree? For those who have a fresh tree, here are some ways from www.care2.com to recycle your tree.

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1. Living trees, with the roots still intact, can be planted in your backyard after Christmas. (A Christmas tree for next year!)
2. Use the tree as a bird feeder in your backyard.
3. Cut off the branches and use the trunk as an edge for your garden.
4. Use the evergreen boughs as post-Christmas home decor.
5. Check if your community has a Christmas tree recycling program. See the National Christmas Tree Association for more information.
6. The trunk of the tree can be used as firewood for your fireplace.
7. Use the needles to make potpourri.
8. The trunk and branches can be used by woodworking hobbyists.
9. If allowed, burn the branches and spread the ashes in your garden. This will help yield better flowers and veggies as the branches have lots of nutrients your garden can benefit from.

For more information on the different ways of recycling your Christmas tree, click here.