HELOISE Candles remember how far to burn

Dear Heloise: Most people do not realize that a candle has "memory." The circle that forms where the wax melts the first time the candle is burned is as far as it will melt on subsequent burns. To get full use of pillar candles, one needs to have the time to let the candle burn all the way to the edge the first time it is burned.
I'm sure there is a scientific reason for this, but I was told about it by a candle-company representative several years ago. I have since tried it with any new candle I burn, and my candles now burn completely to the edge! Be sure never to leave a candle burning unattended. Susan, Bristol, Va.
Susan, this is an interesting idea. So we called the National Candle Association, and a representative said that every candle is different. You really shouldn't burn a candle as far as possible because of the danger of the wax overflowing. In fact, the representative suggested that pillar candles should be extinguished if the wax approaches the outer edge. And follow the directions on a candle's label (which usually say to burn it for a specific time period the first time).
Here are a few candle safety hints to keep in mind, from the National Candle Association:
UNever leave a burning candle unattended.
UKeep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
UUse only appropriate candleholders placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
UPlace lighted candles at least 3 inches apart.
Don't become a fire statistic! Heloise
Dear Heloise: Many years ago, when we started "RV-ing," I had a hard time seeing into the kitchen drawers to find various utensils, such as spatulas, slotted spoons, pancake turner, etc.
By putting all the handles to the rear of the drawer, I had no trouble seeing the one I wanted! Needless to say, that works very well at home, too. Betty Nosbusch, San Diego
Dear Heloise: Here's a travel hint: Select your outfit carefully, as you might have to wear it an extra day due to a layover. A change of clothing is just something extra to carry, and everyone on the flight is going to be in the same predicament. Gale Carson, Montevallo, Ala.
Gale, you are travel-savvy. You can always roll up a lightweight T-shirt, blouse or even a scarf and put it in your carry-on to change the look a little for Day Two! Heloise
Dear Heloise: I use picture hangers and small nails to hang clipboards and artwork on my walls. When I remove artwork for cleaning or take down a clipboard, sometimes the nail falls out, and I have a hard time finding it on the floor. To solve this, I put a small drop of craft glue in the hole and replace the nail/picture hanger. The nails don't fall out anymore. Steve Hamilton, Amarillo, Texas
XSend a great hint to: Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, Fax: (210) HELOISE or E-mail: Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate