Dear Readers: Here are some Christmas decorating safety hints, courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association (nfpa.org):
Look for decorations that are flame-resistant. This is important.
Worn cords and loose bulbs are fire hazards.
Never use indoor lights outdoors or vice versa.
Mount lights with clips. Nails can damage the cord.
Real candles are dangerous. Look for beautiful flameless choices.
The NFPA reminds us to turn off all decorations and stringed lights at the end of the evening. Don't go to bed with them on.-Heloise
AVOIDING GIFT GAFFES
Dear Heloise: I have some hints to share: I save shipping and durable grocery-item boxes for use as gift boxes. The boxes stores provide aren't very strong.
I put a lovely Christmas card in each of our neighbors' mailboxes, along with some baked goodies.-Ellen F., Manassas, Va.
APPLE SLICES
Dear Heloise: For an on-the-go snack, I place apple slices in a zippered sandwich bag, zip it closed almost all the way across, insert a straw into bag, suck the air out and close the bag the rest of the way. This will keep the apples fresh, cold and crisp a bit longer.-Janet Z., Devine, Texas
POINSETTIA POINTERS
Dear Heloise: Recently, I forgot to water my poinsettia plant for about a week! I then poured a cup of water through the soil several times. When the water didn't run through anymore, about half an hour later, the plant started to perk up!-Alice F., Mount Gilead, Ohio
Alice, these are hardy plants that can last well into the new year. The University of Illinois Extension has some hints for caring for poinsettia plants:
The plants need indirect sunlight for around six hours per day. Drafty spots are bad for the plants. Houseplant fertilizer, applied once every 30 days, will extend the life of the plant. When it's in bloom? Don't fertilize.-Heloise
SOLAR LIGHTS
Dear Heloise: We just had a power outage that lasted overnight. I noticed my LED solar walkway lights in my front yard. They are BRIGHT! I put these lights in containers and left them around the house.
This worked beautifully, and they are safer than candles and oil lamps.-Kathy W., Lancaster, Calif.
King Features Syndicate