As the temperature changes, heating bills can become a big financial burden. Make these tips, recommended by Consumers Energy, part of your everyday routine to save some cash:

When you expect to be away from home for five hours or more, turn down the heat. For each degree you adjust the temperature down, you can save one to 3 percent on your bill.

Instead of cranking up the heat at night, try an extra blanket first.

Make sure all furniture, carpeting and curtains are not interfering with heat registers and air return ducts.

Fallen foliage

The East Lansing Street Division conducts leaf collection throughout the fall, keeping yards and streets clean. Follow these guidelines to insure easy pickup:

The division accepts loose leaves, grass clippings and plant material. Do not put out any brush.

Items for pickup should be raked between the curb and sidewalk. Where no sidewalk exists, piles can be made within three feet of the road.

Do not make piles in the street – they can block storm drains.

The city does not require bags, fees or stickers for fall collection.

Pickup for the east side will occur during the weeks of Oct. 15, 29 and Nov. 12.

Pickup for the west side will be held during the weeks of Oct. 22, Nov. 5 and 19.

The ride

Stay safe during winter travel by preparing your car now before the snow hits:

Take your car in for a check-up: Have all belts, tires, rubber hoses, the battery, breaks, alignment, lights and the radiator checked to make sure they are working properly and nothing needs to be replaced.

Try to maintain a full tank of gas at all times.

Prepare an emergency kit to keep in the trunk. Some good items to include are a flashlight, nonperishable food, first aid kit, blankets, gloves, batteries and a shovel.

Personal health

While everyone loves a snow day, sick days are far less fun. Stay healthy this winter by following these tips:

Get a flu shot — look for locations in your area that offer it.

Wash hands to prevent spreading germs.

Take a daily multi-vitamin.