Beware of Internet work-from-home offers!

Dear Heloise: Many folks are looking for some extra income by working from home, especially in today’s economic climate. Just a warning — most offers for work that come via the Internet and the mail are really scams!

Stop! Think! Don’t be gullible. Here are some hints to help you avoid being taken:

• Don’t expect to get rich quick! If the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

• Don’t pay for materials. Businesses that are legitimate never ask you to pay for materials.

• Do not take checks that you are supposed to cash and send back part of the amount. This is a scam that will cost you money!

• Never give anyone your personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank-account number or ATM number!

• Throw away sweepstakes award notifications! We all would like to win the lottery, a dream vacation or an auto — chances are very slim that you will.

• Check the Web sites of the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission to see if the offer you are considering is under investigation. Heloise

Dear Heloise: I would like to contribute an idea that I have developed: a drain cleaner using a plastic drinking straw for removing all that nasty hair, dirt, etc., that gets stuck and plugs up the drain.

Split a straw in half lengthwise, cut the tip to make it pointed, then cut several barbs along the end with scissors. This works like a fishhook. It is flexible and easy to insert into the drain with a jagged edge to capture and pull out the debris. The longer the better, due to the length of the drain. You can then just throw it away in the trash can.

It works perfectly and can be a good alternative for cleaning the top part of the drain instead of using harmful drain cleaner. Machiko Garrigues, Fort Collins, Colo.

Machiko, thanks for the hint, and say hello to your in-laws, who lived with my parents while stationed in China in the late 1940s. Heloise

Dear Heloise: As my eyesight has faded, I have found a few things that help. A dome-type magnifier is indispensable.

I put a dollop of fabric paint on buttons and pads that I use most of the time — like remote controls and the microwave.

I put a line of permanent black marker on measuring-cup lines. You also can use the marker on medicine-bottle “arrows.” Joyce W., Cleburne, Texas

Dear Heloise: I have to use a walker for several months. A dear friend got me a special bag to hang on it to carry a few items. But something was still lacking. I took a water-bottle holder, attached it to the top side bar (after wrapping the strap around once or twice), and voila! Instant cup (or telephone) holder! It’s best to use travel-type mugs with lids. Deborah Platt, Omaha, Neb.

SBlt Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate