QUESTION -- Do you have any suggestions for deterring seagulls, etc. from constantly landing on docks and making a mess, which is very difficult to clean up? Thanks. Doris (Kenora, ON)
ANSWER -- The easiest defence to guard against seagulls is to purchase seagull spikes. Don't worry the spikes won't hurt the birds, but these easy to install spikes will deter your feathered friends. Seagulls like to rest on sturdy areas and the little spikes give them the illusion of instability. The spikes are small and won't alter the appearance of your dock. If spikes are not an option, there are commercial seagull deterrent sprays available in stores and online. It is important not to hurt seagulls, they are considered endangered in some areas which could land you in a heap of trouble. Lastly, make sure there is no garbage or food around to attract them (pretty basic but I had to say it).
QUESTION -- I absolutely love reading your columns. They are always so informative and helpful. I was wondering what your views are on the safety of using microwave ovens? There is so much conflicting information out there and I was wondering if you could clear up some of it? I've read that microwaves change the food they're cooking at the cellular level, causing the food to become harmful. Can you elaborate on this? I put my microwave away almost a year ago because much of the information is quite scary. I was hoping that you could have a way of researching these concerns and letting us know, one way or the other, if there are real dangers or are the reports just myths? It would be wonderful to know the truth, whether or not it hurts microwave oven sales. They are in almost every household and it would be a disaster if using them on a regular basis was damaging our bodies and those of our developing children, don't you agree? I hope you can shed some light on this and I would have some idea as to whether I should dig my microwave out again to use or turf it. Please keep up the great work. Shirley, Winnipeg
ANSWER -- I share your concern and although it does come in handy, I could easily live without a microwave oven. The decision of whether or not to use a microwave oven must be left up to each individual consumer. However, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (Cdn. Government) recommends the following: Owners should keep their microwaves in good working order. Health Canada states, "Microwaves should not be confused with X-rays or other intense forms of energy. The microwaves generated by a microwave oven do not cause food or the oven itself to become radioactive. Some microwave energy may leak from your oven while you are using it, but this would pose no known health risks, as long as the oven is properly maintained. Old or faulty door seals are the most common causes of microwave radiation leakage. Mechanical abuse, a build-up of dirt, or wear and tear from continued use can cause door seals to be less effective." Health Canada states that the amount of Radio Frequency energy is regulated; however there are ongoing studies to research the impact of RF energy on humans (www.ccohs.ca).
QUESTION -- How can I remove bugs from the front of my car? Thank-you. Elizabeth, Winnipeg
ANSWER -- Soak a large tea towel in warm water and dish soap. Lay the dishtowel on the front of the car for 20-30 mins. Remove the towel and dip a nylon sponge in cola. Gently wipe the bugs away. Rinse with warm water, dry with a soft towel.
Fabulous Tips of the Week:
A great way to repel cupboard/drugstore beetles in your home is to scatter bay leaves loosely in your cupboard. Works like a charm! Robbin
I always save the waxy paper inside cereal boxes. This paper is my favorite when making yeast breads. It seldom sticks (the way regular wax paper does) and it doesn't cost anything. When needed, I just carefully rip along the seams and open and use the food side against my dough. It is already dusted with cereal powder. As my sister does not bake, she even saves hers for me. I save them all in the side of a deep drawer for handy use. Velma
I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming. Missed a column? Can't remember a solution? Need a Corporate Presenter on the topic: Harness the Power of Words? Check out my website Reena.ca.
