Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Recently a reader from Fayetteville, Ark., warned against the drowning tragedy that can occur to children or pets from carelessly allowing deep containers of water to stand uncovered.

Perhaps you would extend the same warning for the safety of other life forms as well.

I work as a wildlife biologist and too often see this tragedy repeated when birds, squirrels, even lizards and in my area an endangered species of fox try to drink from pipes, buckets, cisterns or barrels, only to find themselves in a steep-walled trap with no escape.

Any business - farming, oil recovery, machine repair, food services, delivery, whatever - that comes in contact with wildlife should be made aware that their actions or inaction impact these animals.

They, too, should cover open water containers. - Linda Huffman, Bakersfield, Calif.

You spoke and I hope they all listen. - Heloise