KEEP A LIST OF PRESCRIPTIONS HANDY<\/b><\/p>\n
Dear Heloise:<\/b> I\u2019m a longtime reader of your column in the Daily Breeze, in Torrance, California, and I have a hint that I\u2019d like to pass along: I have a habit of keeping a list of my prescriptions in my wallet because whenever I visit a new doctor or specialist, the first thing they ask is which medications I\u2019m taking.<\/p>\n
This came in very handy recently when I was involved in a severe car accident, and the EMTs asked me the same question in the ambulance. I was able to give them the list, and they radioed this to the ER, saving everybody\u2019s precious time! Thanks! — Parker, via email<\/p>\n
KEEPING FINGERNAILS CLEAN WHILE GARDENING<\/b><\/p>\n
Dear Heloise:<\/b> I just read a reader who suggested wearing single-use \u201crubber\u201d gloves to keep their fingernails clean when gardening. It\u2019s far better to keep a bar of soap with your gardening gear and simply scrape your fingernails over the soap bar to pack soap under your fingernails.<\/p>\n
This obviously goes for both women and men. It keeps your fingernails from getting dirty and stained; plus it slightly reinforces the nail so that they don\u2019t bend or break as easily. It\u2019s inexpensive, super easy and environmentally friendly, and it works! — Becky Esbaum, in Eldridge, Iowa<\/p>\n
CLEANING THE LINT TRAP<\/b><\/p>\n
Dear Heloise:<\/b> This is in response to Richard, in Anaheim, California, who had a tip on cleaning a dryer lint trap with used dryer sheets. No, it is not safe to use dryer sheets to clean lint traps as the chemicals can leave a residue that clogs the screen.<\/p>\n
This buildup can reduce dryer efficiency, cause overheating, and potentially create a fire hazard. Instead, you should use a brush or a vacuum to clean the lint trap, and for a deep clean, wash the screen with hot, soapy water. — Marcy Shonk Mumford, in Casey, Illinois<\/p>\n
BOGO SALES<\/b><\/p>\n
Dear Heloise<\/b>: In response to Charles H., I can relate to the complaints about a BOGO sale. When I was raising four children, I loved the opportunity to get these sales. However, being a senior and living in a senior community with less need and space for extra food\/supplies, I still like to hunt for a bargain.<\/p>\n
When I find a BOGO or another good sale, I donate the extra items to a neighbor in need or to the local food bank. If I need the items on sale, I don\u2019t mind getting extra to donate. There\u2019s always someone who can use them or possibly need them.<\/p>\n
Another suggestion is BOGO meals from restaurants. Friends can go out together, enjoy the BOGO meal, and split the bill. I love your column and read it every day in the Villages Daily Sun. — Maggie R., in Florida<\/p>\n
PET PAL<\/b><\/p>\n
Dear Heloise<\/b>: I named my dog after Walter Payton, as I am a Chicago Bear fan. I read your column daily. Pets are so important. I\u2019m a mental health therapist and recommend pets as a way to improve one\u2019s mental health. — Lisa Franz, via email<\/p>\n Readers, to see Walter and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on \u201cPet of the Week.\u201d<\/p>\n Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise<\/p>\n![\"Walter](\"https:\/\/www.nj.com\/resizer\/v2\/Q6F7NJO7K5FNRCVPLWOUZIW5TA.jpg?auth=cc7a5395b7f03bbdc7130322d409e6a4c8f8364961d2f5d41c5b8857888d414f&width=1280&smart=true&quality=90\")