Reader’s hint can be a lifesaver for campers

heloise

Reader’s hint can be a lifesaver for campers

Dear Heloise: Our extended family went to a lovely rural campsite for our family reunion, and was it fun! While there, one of our younger attendees was taken ill, and I was contemplating having to call 911. Fortunately, we didn’t have to, but I was one of only three of our about 60 people who knew the street name and address of the camp. It is possible to get a dispatcher from some other area if there are a lot of calls in the area from which you’re calling. When minutes count, this could cost lives.

So, travelers, make sure you could make that call if you had to! Especially when you’re camping, where there are a lot of high-risk activities, like fires, swimming, boating, etc. Caroline from Ontario, Canada

Caroline, this is something most people don’t think about. With so many families camping nowadays, this is vital to keep in mind. Thanks for passing along this potentially lifesaving hint. Heloise

Dear Heloise: To avoid the frustration of opening those shrink-wrapped plastic items, I found using a seam ripper works wonders. They can be bought at most stores selling sewing supplies. Joyce Mason, Vienna, Va.

A seam ripper can be a very handy “tool,” and not just for someone who sews. I use one to “open” the plastic wrap on CDs and to cut threads, etc., from the brush on the vacuum. Heloise

Dear Heloise: Since bacteria accumulate on dishwashing sponges, I have a hint to keep them as clean as possible. I have two sponges at all times, running one through the dishwasher (put on top rack and secure — Heloise) while using the other. I also wash my nonwooden cutting board each time I run the dishwasher. Janein Texas

Dear Heloise: I shower every day and apply moisturizer. I’ve started to add a couple of drops of liquid foundation to the moisturizer for my face. I get a nice, even tone on my face in one shot. A bit of lipstick and “the old barn” doesn’t look so old! Susie, via e-mail

Here is another cosmetic hint, from Sue from Arizona. She says: “I’ve gotten frustrated trying to sharpen eyebrow pencils, lip pencils and eyeliners! I’ve bought dozens of different sharpeners — to no avail. The soft crayon pencils break and stick in the sharpener. I put the pencils in the freezer for 30 minutes, take them out and sharpen. Nice sharp points every time, and no breaking!” Heloise

Dear Heloise: My five grandchildren often spend the night or come over before school and have breakfast. I have an array of toothbrushes for them, and they forget which is theirs. I bought each a new one, and to remember their color toothbrush, I bought the color that their first name starts with. I have no problem with them arguing about what color they want. It works great. L.L. in Missouri

King Features Syndicate