It’s that time of year when we will be indoors more and germs will be too. Germs live everywhere. They are in the air, on food, plants, animals; in soil, water and on just about every surface, including your body. When we are closed up indoors when the weather gets cold, it seems germs are more available to attack us. Most germs won’t harm you. Your immune system can protect you against a lot infectious agents. Some germs can be formidable adversaries because they are constantly mutating to breach your immune system. What is the best way to prevent infection? Wash your hands – it can’t be said enough. Hand washing is often overlooked but one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself from most germs and infections. Wash your hands before preparing and eating food, after changing a diaper or using the toilet. Think about all the things you touch in a day. Door knobs/handles, the gas handle at the gas station, pens, phones, the list is endless. Never sneeze or cough into your hands, instead do it into your inner elbow. Ever see how far those moist particles travel when you sneeze or cough without covering? Disgusting! Good old soap and water is the most effective method to wash your hands, but you can use liquid alcohol based hand sanitizer when no soap and water is available. The more time we spend indoors in the fall and winter, it seems we are more susceptible to certain germs because of the closed environment. If you can, open a window or door and let some fresh air circulate. De Hart Plumbing, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas and Wamego Kansas.