HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: I really enjoy candles, and have many that I’ve purchased when traveling. 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 DEAR READER: 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 such in 2003. A candle purchased today is much more likely to have a 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 because they keep the wick upright as the wax melts.
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.
— E.S., Stow, Ohio DEAR READER: This is such a thoughtful hint. Be sure to check the labels of candy without peanuts or peanut butter, as some are made in the same plants.
DEAR HELOISE: I was baby-sitting for my grandchildren while their parents were on a cruise. 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 hot line. 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, especially around young children. You never know what could be inside some of the favors given to children.
— Jane D., via email DEAR READER: Thankfully, your granddaughter was fine, but it’s a reminder to go through the kids’ stash of goodies before giving it to them.