HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR READERS: Today’s Sound Off is about 911 calls:
DEAR HELOISE: Working as a 911 operator, I’ve handled many emergencies. However, some people seem confused by the word “emergency.” It means: a fire, a crime (especially if it’s still in progress), a car crash where someone is hurt, or a medical emergency.
It does not mean calling because McDonald’s ran out of Chicken McNuggets (this really happened), or telling the operator that a person’s house is on fire when it is not. Calls like that can earn you jail time and a stiff fine, depending on where you live.
We’re trained to handle emergencies, not annoying calls. Please only call in a real emergency. If you do call with an emergency, you’ll be asked a number of questions in order to assist you and analyze the situation, so stay calm and answer the operator.
— Jennifer F. in Phoenix
DEAR HELOISE: It used to be the custom to throw rice at a wedding, but now it’s birdseed. Please get permission before tossing any seed at the happy couple. Much of it is eaten by birds, but the seeds that are not eaten may sprout weeds in a church lawn. — The Reverend’s Wife,
via email
DEAR HELOISE: Just as a reminder, inside of the card for a wedding gift, make some notation of what the gift is. Something like “We hope you enjoy the blender” or “I hope you enjoy this floral vase for many years to come.” If the gift and card get separated, at least the couple will remember what you gave them when writing thank-you notes. — Arlene J., Bismarck,
N.D.
DEAR HELOISE: you freeze butter?
— Chloe D., Aberdeen, Wash. DEAR READER: Yes, you can. Store it in its original container or tightly wrapped until needed. The freezer life for butter is about two to three months. To make it easier to spread, leave it on the counter for a few minutes.
Can
DEAR HELOISE: I’m big on matching my body wash, lotion and fragrance, but the women’s versions of wash and lotion can be pricier.
I buy the men’s variety of body wash and lotion in my fave fragrance, and I save a lot. The men’s is a nice counterbalance to the ladies’ perfume.
— Shelley B. in New York
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email