HELOISE: Packing for a trip? Get the 411 on 3-1-1

Dear Readers: The airport seems to be another home away from home these days! Recently, I was in 10 airports and on seven planes in three and a half days! The Transportation Security Administration (www.TSA.gov) has regulations for liquids and gels that you are permitted to carry on board. Remember the 3-1-1 system when packing your carry-on bag. Three refers to 3 ounces (or specifically 3.4 ounces, or a 100 ml bottle or less) of fluid or gel. Lots of manufacturers have “come on board” and have begun packaging hair-care products, oral care (toothpaste, mouthwash, etc.) and other personal-care items in these sizes. There are some exceptions. Medications, baby formula and baby food are allowed in larger sizes. Tell your TSA screener if you have these in your bag.

The first 1 in the 3-1-1 system? One-quart-sized, clear, zipper-top (freezer type) bag. The second 1? One clear bag per person.

Using this system helps the screeners get everyone through the security checkpoint quickly and efficiently.

Keep in mind, these guidelines are meant for the items in your carry-on bag and if you are making a short trip. You can pack larger personal-care items in your checked bag.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I have always found it difficult to pull my driver’s license from those tight little slots in my billfold. To make this task easier on the fingers, I attached a piece of clear packing tape to the side of my license, creating a pull tab.

I’ve gotten lots of comments from clerks in stores who see me easily removing my license.

Hope this hint helps your other readers.

Janet Lohmeier in Nebraska

Dear Heloise: These are some hints for those who live alone.

For peaceful sleeping, install a deadbolt lock on your bedroom door. Get the kind that is keyless for easy exit but needs a key for entry. Make spare keys to give to family members in case of an emergency.

Keep your cell phone with you at night and also your car keys if you have a car alarm system. Set off the car alarm if someone breaks into your house.

A Reader, via e-mail

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

King Features Syndicate

Dear Heloise: As winter and the cold-and-flu season approach, anytime the bathroom needs a “spritz” to freshen the air, I make sure to use a deodorizing disinfectant spray to spray the handle on the toilet, the faucet handles, the sink area and the bathroom doorknob as well. And I’ll occasionally spray the bedroom doorknobs, too! Better safe than sorry!

Pennie in New Jersey

You can’t be too safe, but please check that those surfaces won’t be harmed by the spray.

Heloise