Newer candles pose no health risk from lead; Inspect Halloween treats carefully

Heloise
Heloise

Dear Heloise: I really enjoy candles, and have many that I've purchased when traveling across the U.S. Is there any concern today about the metal wicks? I believe years ago there was a risk of lead, but how about today?-Cheryl S. in Arizona
No worries, Cheryl. According to the National Candle Association, there is a very small chance that a candle purchased today would have lead in its wick, since the U.S. banned lead in wicks in 2003. A candle purchased today is much more likely to have a metal wick made with tin or zinc (which is nontoxic), or all-cotton or cotton-paper wicks. Metal-core wicks are more often found in votive candles and container candles-Heloise

HALLOWEEN HINT
Dear Heloise: I buy a variety of candy bars to hand out for trick-or-treaters. I separate the candy bars with peanuts or peanut butter from candy bars without peanuts and peanut butter. Although I don't believe the candy without peanuts can be affected by the candy with peanuts, children with peanut allergies can choose a candy bar they like and will be able to enjoy. Hopefully it saves some tears from having their treats taken away because they cannot eat them.-E.S., Stow, Ohio
This is such a thoughtful hint. However, be sure to check the labels of candy without peanuts or peanut butter, as some are made in the same plants as peanut products.-Heloise

HALLOWEEN CAUTION
Dear Heloise: I was baby-sitting for my grandchildren. It was about a week after Halloween, so the kids still had some remnants of goodies and stuff from Halloween. We were sitting on the bed watching a movie when the 3-year-old started crying. She had bitten into a glow necklace and had the color all in her mouth, on the bed and on her clothes. All I could think about was the poison-control hotline. They assured me that it was not poison and she would be all right. All was fine, but if I had it to do over again, all glow toys would go in the trash. You never know what could be inside some of the favors given to children.-Jane D., via email
Thankfully, your granddaughter was fine, but it's a reminder to go through the kids' stash of goodies before giving it to them.-Heloise

King Features Syndicate

Upcoming Events