(ARA) - The arrival of winter and daylight saving time means more of us will be getting up - and coming home - in the dark. The short, dark days of cool weather are a smart time to think about home safety and security.

A home break-in occurs every 14.6 seconds, according to the FBI. The good news is that simple, inexpensive do-it-yourself projects can help to better protect your home and loved ones. From improving lighting to installing a wireless home security system, many safety-focused projects are easy and cost effective to accomplish.

(ARA) - The no-no's about using hardwood near a water source are vanishing. And while allowing water to rest on a wooden surface for extended periods will always be a no-no, the American Hardwood Information Center, finds that more design professionals are saying yes to client requests for the warmth, charm and richness of natural wood no matter where it's used -- in the bath, the kitchen and even the basement.