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Text Box: Nature is undergoing a fresh start and so are homeowners who are ready to clean up the debris that has been accumulating in basements, storage sheds, and garages over the winter. ·    Household and pool chemicals, paints, and poisons should be properly marked and stored under lock and key, away from children’s reach.  Dispose of any that are leaking, expired, or that look bad. ·    When cleaning up hazardous chemicals wear rubber gloves and follow the safety direction on the packaging.  Never mix chemicals in the same container.  If you don’t’ know how to dispose of them, seek outside advice.  Never put them into the trash or pour down the drain. ·    Make sure gasoline and cleaning fluids are well marked and stored in a cool, dry place away from the house and out of the reach of children and pets.  Use only approved containers for gasoline storage. ·    Never use gasoline to clean skin, clothes, auto parts, or floors. ·    Clean up work areas.  Put dangerous tools, adhesives, matches, or other work items away from children’s reach. ·    Check your barbecue grill for leaks and cracks, and be sure to store any propane tanks away from your house and garage. ·    Remove all fire hazards, including stacks of rags, newspapers, and magazines.  Pay special attention to the spaces around your furnace, hot water tank, fireplace, space heaters, and dryer, as well as under the stairs. Ready for some outdoor exercise and adventure? Here are a few pointers. ·    Winter’s inactive muscles can take only so much strain.  Don’t overdo it — build up slowly so you don’t have strains that can put you out of commission for some time. ·    It may look appealing, but don’t wander on frozen rivers and lakes in the spring.  The ice is beginning to thaw, and you never know just how thin the ice really is. ·    Spring’s extra rain and thawing snow can cause normally safe rivers, streams, and creeks to turn treacherous.  Even standing on banks can be risky as they can be undercut by rushing water and give in under your weight. ·    Springtime is also severe weather time.  If the skies look threatening, check to see if a storm watch or warning has been issued before you initiate outdoor activities.  If you’re already outside and thunderstorms threaten, go immediately into a building or enclosed vehicle.  For tornadoes, go to the nearest safe structure, or the basement or interior first-floor room of your home.  If there’s no time to follow these precautions, take cover in a ditch or depression in the ground.