Team up with neighbors to keep vigilant watch

Dear Readers: Springtime is a good time to visit neighbors to talk about neighborhood safety and reinforce the importance of watching out for each other’s homes.

Here is what a reader suggested: When someone sees or hears something suspicious, he or she should turn on the porch light and call the neighbor living next door or across the street, explain the situation, then ask that person to turn on the porch light and call another neighbor, and so forth. If there is a prowler and he sees porch lights turn on one after the other, he might think twice about that neighborhood.

Here are some safety hints to keep in mind:

•Teach your children to be good neighbors as well. Instruct them on how to keep a watchful eye out for each other’s home and property, and how to report suspicious activity.

•Keep all doors and windows locked, being sure to check them after any repair or cleaning service has been used.

•If you are going to be gone for a period of time, use timers for lights, radios and televisions to mirror your usual habits.

•Ask a neighbor to house sit or leave his or her car in your driveway while you are away. Heloise

Dear Heloise: When I travel, I keep a pair of pierced earrings in each of the compartments of a container usually used to keep track of pills. I got one at my pharmacy as a promotional gift. It’s also nice because it fits into my purse. A Reader, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: I wonder how many people are aware that vinegar comes in two strengths 5 percent and 9 percent. While most cooks use 5 percent, for cleaning the 9 percent can do a better job. I buy the 9 percent by the gallon and use it anywhere lime deposits build up, as well as for general cleaning. After it has been used for something like buildup in a glass, I pour it into the bowl of the commode. It helps keep deposits from building up in the bottom of the bowl. Rosalie, Uvalde, Texas

Dear Heloise: I use an ice pick to make three or four holes in the ridge of a paint can. This allows the paint to drain back into the can. It does not seem to interfere with the lid making a good seal. Sharon H. Evans, Houston

King Features Syndicate