Do a fire extinguisher check
Dear Heloise: Besides checking your batteries in your smoke alarms and your carbon monoxide devices, you also should pick up your handheld fire extinguisher and give it a vigorous shaking. This keeps the fire suppressant suspended so it’s more effective and doesn’t settle at the bottom. — Neil G., Belgrade, Maine
Neil, some fire extinguishers don’t have an expiration date stamped on them, but most manufacturers use a five- to 15-year recommendation for replacement of a fire extinguisher. You should check the pressure gauge monthly, and if you are in doubt, have a pro or someone at the fire station take a look at it. Make sure the nozzle or hose is not cracked. Is the handle wobbly? Make sure the blocking pin on the handle is not missing, and keep the maintenance of your extinguisher up to date. — Heloise
Fire Bags
Dear Heloise: We live in Vermont and have a wood-burning stove. I’m the designated fire starter. The handfuls of paper and kindling were messy and time-consuming, so I now prepare “fire starting bags.” I save all small paper bags instead of throwing them away. I fill the bags with wood scraps, crushed waste paper and cardboard. One of these bags is a great way to get the fire going on a cold winter morning. — Elaine N., Hubbardton, Vermont
Hardwood Floors
Dear Heloise: We just got new hardwood floors. Any hints for maintaining a nice wooden floor? — Tammy H., Purcell, Oklahoma
Tammy, here are some valuable hints to keep those floors looking like new:
If you use throw rugs on your wooden floors, use a good pad underneath that won’t stain the floor. It’ll protect the floor and help your rug last longer.
Use floor protectors under the legs of furniture and don’t slide furniture. Pick up the piece to move it.
During the winter months you might consider using a humidifier in your room to help minimize wood shrinkage and movement.
Be very careful with high heels and sports shoes that have cleats.
If water or other liquids spill on your floor, mop it up immediately.— Heloise