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HomeMy WebLinkAboutClinton News-Record, 1986-12-03, Page 36Page 12 N/10KCW ys 10 sN hits tio A real Christmas tree can be safe too At Christmas, most Canadians still prefer to decorate their homes with the traditional natural tree. Today, however, with increas- ing concern about conservation of forest resources, many people believe they are depleting forests by buying natural young conifers at Christmas. The fact is that most Christmas trees sold by dealers ae not grown in productive forests, but on special plantations using land that might otherwise be unproductive. Others are cut from natural forests, but are obtained by thinning dense stands, thereby allowing better growth for commercial species. Christmas tree cutting creates jobs and extra income for farmers and other rural people in winter,and the plantations often provide scenic green belts, prevent land ero- sion, give sanctuary to wildlife and help reduce air pollution. By using care and common sense, a natural tree can be safe as any other. Here are some important points to remember when buying and installing your tree: Buy a tree that is fresh, since it will con- tain more moisture. The twigs should be flexible, and the needles should not fall off when the butt is knocked on the ground. Before you bring it indoors, the tree can be safely stored outdoors, sheltered as much as possible from wind and sun. When you are ready to bring your tree in- doors, saw about an inch off the butt to in- crease water absorption. Put the tree in a stand with a good water container, and make sure it is kept filled. plain water is best, and the use of any additives claimed to be "fire retardant" should be avoided. These would actually reduce water absorp- I:'LI, GIVE YOTJ TI IE I IOLII)AY SEASON LOOK YOU'LL LOVE! See Karen's for FACIALS MANICURES PEDICURES MAKEUP WAXING EYELASH TINTING EAR PIERCING PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER PERFUME REPLICAS The scent of the original -at half the price -and Tess choose from OSCAR DE LA RENTA • OPIUM GIORGIO • OBSESSION NEW COSMETICS •Dr. Renaud Skin Care •Dibi Cosmetics PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER For the lady on your list - a GIFT CERTIFICATE from Karen's available for any of our beauty services or n any denomination .11. • HIT THE BEACH ON ALBERT ST, Make an appointment on our SUNTANNING BED 10. 1/2 HOUR SESSIONS 49 HALF HOUR SESSIONS • 6 • i ■ 17 ALBERT ST., CLINTON PHONE FOR AN APPOINTMEN1. 482-3454 tion by the tree. Fire -retardant sprays should also be avoided. Depending on the species, and on temperature and humidity of the room, tress will consume varying amounts of water indoors. A tree about 2m high could absorb up to a litre in 24 hours. Keep you Christmas tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat, and be sure it doesn't block an exit from the room. Never use wax candles on or near the tree. Before using electric tree lights, check them carefully for frayed cords or other defects. be sure to turn off the lights before going to bed or leaving the house. Toys, toys, toys... • from page 11 answer questions or offer advice about par- ticular products. While exploring the stores, parents may also want to discuss the concepts of choice and dollar value with their youngsters, Creighton says. Children too young to understand numbers can still grasp the idea that "one of these costs as much as three small toys." Another major issue parents will face again this Christmas involves toys that pre- sent violent images. Largely a moral ques- tion, the guns-in-the-toybox controversy has to be dealt with on an individual basis by parents, Creighton says. The toy council does not test products perceived to involve violence. "There are definitely more toys on the market today that Locus on aggression and conflict. We get a lot of letters. Many parents are very concerned about this issue, but we feel the question is best left alone. If, as a parent, the toy doesn't offend you, then that's your choice to go out and buy it. We just don't want to appear to be lending them credibility." In general, toys have improved over the years, Creighton says. Manufacturers have become increasingly responsive to con- sumer needs and demands. For the first time this year, some companies have asked the council to pretest new toys before they are marketed. "But, as always, it behooves parents to do their homework," she says. "Toys are pro- duce for many different purposes ... it falls upon you as a purchaser to ensure you balance the choices." • 134 'Design FMAILYu2HAIRSTYL1NG 482.7711 ONT4R10 STOCKING STUFFERS Combs, Brushes, Travel Size Hairspray Haircare Products, Earrings and Fashion Hose! Special Suggestions: Hot Brushes, and Curling Irons From: Marlen Book ear nt