Turn signals to blame
Dear Readers: Here is this week’s SOUND OFF, about turn signals:
“Every day you see someone who has left the turn signal on unintentionally. I don’t have to explain all the indecision this causes — and, no doubt, some accidents. This is the fault of automobile manufacturers and safety engineers. The well-hidden, dim, little green light can’t reach the driver’s vision. All turn-signal lights should be bright yellow, inside and outside the automobile.” — C.W. in Anaheim, Calif.
This is an ongoing and highly frustrating problem! Many times the driver can’t see the blinking light or hear the sound (because of loud noise), or his or her attention is elsewhere. But the blame shouldn’t really be put on car manufacturers; there are safety designs and concerns we don’t even think about! — Heloise
FAST FACTS
Dear Readers: Here are other ways to use a journal:
n Keep favorite recipes in it.
n Track goings-on in your garden.
n Keep a list of books you’ve read.
n Use a travel journal to document your trips.
n As an art journal to sketch and try new techniques.
— Heloise
CREASE TROUBLE
Dear Heloise: When I purchase new throw rugs, there always is a fold line that never seems to wear out. What can I do to take the crease out of new rugs? — Susan H., via email
Susan, most throw rugs are washable, so your first step is to put the rug in the washing machine. Use the “large” load setting, the regular amount of detergent and warm water. Rinse twice to remove any “sizing” added during the manufacturing process. Let dry naturally. Hang it somewhere out of the way, since it will take a little time to dry, depending on the size. If the crease is still there, here’s a classic Heloise hint to help remove creases in clothing:
Vinegar to the rescue! Lay the rug out flat, dampen a washcloth with a hefty dose of white vinegar and place it over the crease. Use your iron on a medium setting and press the cloth. Do this several times, then let the rug dry. That should do it! Vinegar is just about the most valued product in my household! I wrote a pamphlet filled with money-saving ways of using vinegar. To receive one, send $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped (70 cents) envelope to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. This is a perfect method to use if you want to create a crease in a garment: Fold, dampen with vinegar and iron. — Heloise
CLIP-ON LIGHT
Dear Heloise: Regarding the comment about hotel/motel lighting being bad for reading, clip-on book lights are the way to go. They cost less than $10 and will light up your life. You can use them anywhere, as they are nonintrusive. You can clip one on the outside of your purse to help get your key into a lock if it’s dark. — Elaine J., Humble, Texas