So I just got my UNO in. I just have a question about work environment. My office where I'd like to work, is a wooden desk, on carpet. My chair (made up of plastics and metal) sits on one of those plastic floor mats. I'm nervous about having static buildup that will fry my UNO. Should I work somewhere else or can I grab the metal window frame that sits next to me? Thank you ~Van
Yes, carpet can be deadly for electrostatic buildup. Those Lexan or Plexiglas mats are even worse. You can ground yourself on the computer (the one the Arduino is connected to) or some exposed ground part of the USB cable connection to the Arduino by touching your finger to it, each time you begin working on the parts. That is the simplest way, without purchasing or installing things like antistatic mats, wrist straps and so on...
‘From a good deal of previous experience’, if the carpet is new you should do some proactive antistatic spaying.
A mixture of water and fabric softener is something that has worked, reapplication several times is often warranted.
You can also invest in an antistatic wrist strap or make one.
See post #738.
https://forum.arduino.cc/index.php?topic=445951.msg4497971#msg4497971
For other tips, take a look at the other 700+ Hints in the thread.
The metal window frame may not be grounded. FYI.
Thanks everyone for the help. Another question along the same lines, what do you put the uno in to make it transportable or prevent static from affecting it once you've completed your project. Let's say I want to create a light up sweater or something for a christmas party. How would I encase everything to keep it secure?
There is an ‘Arduino Pro Mini’ available which has the same functions as the UNO, you need an FTDI cable to program it ~ $5.
Search for plastic project cases.
samico376:
Thanks everyone for the help. Another question along the same lines, what do you put the uno in to make it transportable or prevent static from affecting it once you've completed your project. Let's say I want to create a light up sweater or something for a christmas party. How would I encase everything to keep it secure?
Good question. For the units that kick around my desk and laptop case, I use the ubiquitous ABS snap together cases that you can buy online. Those are available in UNO and MEGA form factor.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32958766328.html
Unfortunately there is no room inside for additional boards. Some of my projects were enclosed in the cardboard box that the parts came in! 
I just cut out holes for displays, wires etc. and use "stuffing" inside to keep the parts from touching each other. I've seen 3d printed cases for the Nano... the problem with cases is that it is difficult to conceive of one that will make every user happy, as projects differ so much.