Getting rid of snakes in the grass
Dear Heloise:
We just moved to Texas, and I have learned that there are many snakes here. I can pretty much figure out which are poisonous and which are not, but just seeing garter snakes in my yard panics me. Are there any steps I can take to keep them out of my yard this summer?
Beverly from Texas —
Yes, there are. Garter snakes leave their dens to look for food or other shelter. The best way to deal with them is to eliminate their favorite hiding places, such as in tall grass, stacked wood or brush. Mow the lawn often. Keep firewood and any other piled-up material at the edge of your property. Snakes will come to your yard to eat insects or rodents, so try to get rid of their favorite foods. Snakes will slither in your basement to look for a cool, dark and damp spot. Seal any openings around doors and windows, water pipes and electrical outlets. —
Heloise Dear Readers:
When you and your family go to a theme park, a museum, state fair or any other spot where there will be lots of people, it can be easy for a child to get lost or wander away from you.
So chat with your children about staying close and making sure that they can see you and that you can see them. To make this easier, get everyone to wear the same color T-shirt, scarf or wristband that’s easy to identify. Take a picture when you first arrive so you can share the photo if someone gets lost. If possible, point out a safe place to gather. Parents should make sure their kids know a telephone number to call or have a cellphone in case of an emergency.
— Heloise Dear Readers:
If you have extra toothbrushes that you are not using in the bathroom, they can do double duty around your home. They’re great for cleaning small grooves where dirt lands.
For example, use toothbrushes to clean handles on pots and pans. They are good for getting rid of bits of food stuck in the tines of a fork. And they can be handy to remove grit on the handles or rubber around the oven or stove. You probably can think of other uses for them in the garage!
— Heloise Dear Readers:
If you fertilize or use chemicals on your lawn, make sure you know what chemicals are being used. Keep your pets away from the area while it’s being treated and for hours afterward because the chemicals can be dangerous to your pets.
— Heloise Dear Readers:
Summer peaches are such a delicious treat. And they are juicy and messy. But here’s a good way cut peaches faster. To save time and mess, cut a peach in half, take off the skin and remove the pits. Put the peaches on a plate. Grab a wire egg slicer and gently push the wires down. You’ll have nice, neat slices!
Heloise —