Published: April 25, 2008 10:18 am            

In search of clairty

The wonderful world of directions

Last week’s column about my desire to have fire extinguisher training brought about several responses so I thought I’d continue the topic this week — at least for a start.

One question asked me: Doesn’t your home fire extinguisher have instructions printed on the side of it? My response: Yes, it does, but who’s got time to read the instructions when you’re trying to put out a fire?

Really, I do have instructions, but they need to be explained by someone.

The instructions show a picture of a hand pulling the pin out of the extinguisher. So far, that’s no problem. I think I could do that. Then it shows a man putting out what appears to be a campfire. There is a wood pile, as there would be with a typical campfire, and it has with flames rising. The man is shown using the extinguisher to put out the fire.

The irony with all this is what is below the “instructions.” Very plainly marked is the famous round circle with a diagonal slash. As we all know, that means “no.” So what is a “no-no” with the extinguisher? Putting out fires that are wood and paper!

So, why in the world would the picture show a man putting out a fire generated by wood?

You see what I mean? Do you understand how confusing that is?

A few people told me their jobs require mandatory safety training classes which include fire extinguisher usage. Who knew?

My coworker Janet told me when she worked at the Austin American-Statesman she got to participate in one of those safety training classes, and she got to really use the fire extinguisher as part of the training! None of the other newsroom staff participated so she was able to brag about her success of wielding said extinguisher to put out a blaze.

Something that a bit of a blaze to it — or more accurately a “bite” to it — is the following recipe I received from my sister years ago. Have a glass of something cool to drink nearby. Enjoy!

Ham Cubes

2 tablespoons prepared horseradish

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1-8 ounce package cream cheese, softened

6 thin slices boiled (deli) ham

Mix all ingredients (except ham) until creamy and of spreading consistency. Place one ham slice on a piece of waxed paper. With a spatula, spread some of the creamed mixture over it. Place another slice of ham on top of creamed mixture. Spread more of the mixture on the ham slice. Repeat layers, ending with ham slice on top. Wrap all securely in waxed paper and place in freezer for two hours or more. One hour before serving, remove and cut into small cubes. Pierce each cube with a toothpick. Makes about 36.

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Camille McClanahan may be contacted via e-mail at camille@corsicanadailysun.com.

        

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