Dear Heloise: I’m reading the warnings on my hair dryer. Some of these may seem obvious, but they are good safety hints: The manufacturer recommends unplugging the dryer after each use and not placing it where it can fall into the tub, toilet or sink. Don’t use it while bathing or near water at all. If the dryer happens to fall into water, unplug it right away; never reach into the water.

The filter of the dryer can also get clogged. If it’s not blowing hot air, turn the unit off. Let the unit cool completely, then clean the lint filter. There may be a red “reset” button on the plug; press it and plug the hair dryer back in. It should work perfectly. — Anne, in Texas

Anne, great safety hints. The special plug on a hair dryer is called an appliance leakage current interrupter (ALCI), and it’s designed to help prevent electrical shock. It works together with the GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet.

P.S. Always read appliance safety manuals to get the full scoop. — Heloise

GOT “SKUNKED”

Dear Heloise: My dog got “skunked.” What should I do? — A Reader, via email

Reader, don’t panic. A skunk’s smell is foul, but it’s fixable. First, rinse your dog’s eyes with fresh water. (A turkey baster works well.) Then mix together 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of liquid soap. Rub this into the dog’s coat gently but thoroughly (don’t wet the dog first) and let sit for 5 minutes, then rinse. Repeat if necessary. — Heloise

MONEY-SAVING SHAVING CREAM

Dear Heloise: To save money, use a bar of soap or liquid soap instead of canned shaving cream. It’s better for the environment, too. — Ed, in Dallas

Ed, there is something else you can use to shave with, and it is plain ol’ olive oil. It moisturizes the skin. — Heloise