Some greener ways to stay warm this winter

With cool weather on the way you may, be wondering just how you'll manage to maintain your eco-friendly habits and stay warm at the same time. While your home, like most in America, will likely rely on fossil fuels for heat for years to come, it's still possible to have a "greener" winter.

When it comes to home heating costs, green practices can also save you another kind of green — cash. The average American household spends $2,000 on energy costs each year, and half of that total goes to heat and cool the home, according to EnergyStar.

Make some environmentally smart lifestyle changes to reduce heating costs.

For example, winterize your home, make sure insulation is adequate, install programmable thermostats and dress appropriately for the season.

Use safe, green electric space heaters. Oil or kerosene heaters present tipping and burning hazards, plus they emit greenhouse gases. Modern electric space heaters are more energy efficient. For maximum safety and efficiency, choose a heater like the Toasty Toes or Cozy Legs flat panel heaters by Indus-tool.

Thermostatically controlled, both products put the heat right where it's most needed — on your feet and legs — rather than inefficiently trying to heat an entire area. They use less energy than an incandescent light bulb and are safe for use around pets, children or elders. Visit www.indus-tool.com to learn more.