Supervisor Jon Kaiman and Councilman Tom Dwyer last week hosted the second annual "Getting Ready for Jack Frost," an informational seminar on what residents can do to protect themselves and their homes this winter. Among the issues discussed were: health awareness, home safety, home heating and how to winterize your home.

"It is very clear to me that there is a great need to explore ways for our residents to get through these cold winter months safe and healthy without reaching deep into their pockets," said Councilman Dwyer. "That is why I am happy to be able to host this program which can provide people with the information they need."

Among the featured speakers for the event were: Barbara Higgins, dietician from LIJ; Rosemary Ennis, director of Public Education, North Shore LIJ; Jamie Iuculano, of Willis Avenue Hardware; Lu Cornacchia, senior supervisor of gas and marketing for Keyspan; John McCormick, ex-president of the Roslyn Highlands Fire Company; Tom Mulzoff and Bob Swartz, of the Water Authority of Western Nassau; and North Hempstead Community Services Commissioner Madge Kaplan.

Among the recommendations made by the speakers were:

* Every house should have more then one smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector. In addition, they should be located in a common area of the house like a hallway and the batteries should be changed once every year.

* A simple way to prevent catching colds and the flu is to wash your hands a minimum of four times a day.

* Instead of drastically lowering your home temperature in order to save money, try gradually lowering the temperature one degree a day so your body will adjust to the colder climate.

* An easy way of insulating your older windows is by applying shrink wrap to the joints and cracks.

Supervisor Kaiman added that, "Sometimes, it is the little things that count like washing your hands or checking the battery in your smoke detector. By making some simple adjustments to your home you can save significant money on your heating bill."

The complete "Getting Ready for Jack Frost" program can be viewed on North Hempstead Television Channel 18 and Channel 73 in Great Neck at 8 p.m. and will air throughout the month. For those interested in additional information please call the Department of Community Services at (516) 869-7715.