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Energy efficient gifts are not only green, but things people needPractical and useable gifts are all the rage this holiday season with the current economic downtown. And what could be more practical than gifts that actually save people money. Shirley Niemeyer, UNL Extension housing and environment specialist, recommends giving gifts that help people have a safer, healthier and more energy efficient home. "Think about the person and his or her household needs year round," Niemeyer said. "What items would help make the home and environment safer and healthier and more energy efficient?" To combat rising utility bills, give a packet of fluorescent light bulbs. Switch and outlet gaskets, non-expanding caulk or regular caulk, rope caulk and backer rod, a low-flow faucet or aerator, or insulation wrap or tape for water pipes near the water heater also can help conserve energy. For those who are not the handy type, give a gift certificate of your service. Weatherstripping doors and windows or caulking and turning down the water heater to 120 degrees all can help. To keep households safe, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, along with appropriate batteries are another good idea, while a gift certificate for heating equipment maintenance and inspection can save someone's life. Another helpful idea is to make a home emergency pack for someone. Include things like crank up flashlights, radios, cell phone charges and emergency lighting. Again, batteries for all these items also are a plus. 11/24/08 Date: 11/19/08
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