HELOISE: Program emergency numbers into phone

Dear Heloise: It takes only a few minutes to program emergency numbers into your cellphone (poison control, local police, road conditions, etc.). You’ll be happy you did if you ever need them. Also, while you’re updating the contact list in your phone, remember to put ICE (“In Case of Emergency” — Heloise) by the name of the person you would like to be contacted in case of emergency.

Karen, Omaha, Neb.

Thanks for the good reminder, and while you’re at it, why not post the ICE information by your home phone or on the refrigerator door?

Heloise

Dear Heloise: After the death of my younger sister, her daughter and son were shocked to learn that she had not left a will nor given anyone her computer passwords! Please advise your readers that if you have bank accounts or if you pay bills online, give your passwords to a close relative to help settle your estate. Thank you.

Joyce in Roswell, N.M.

My condolences, Joyce, and what an important hint for others using today’s technology. It is generally a good idea to keep your passwords with your will and other important documents in a safe-deposit box, if possible. And consider leaving a set with a trusted relative, but keep in mind that they can access your accounts while you’re alive as well.

Heloise

P.S.: State laws and circumstances vary with concern to dealing with a financial situation after a death, so please check with a trusted adviser for help.

Dear Heloise: Some more helpful information about making hotel reservations: Insist on getting a copy via email or mail. Make sure the copy has your confirmation number, the room type and the price quote. Carry it with you when you check in, and make sure you are getting what you requested and paid for.

Having my printed confirmation has saved me more than once, and if the hotel overbooked, I end up with a suite for the price on my confirmation.

And always get a guaranteed late arrival. You never know what is going to happen. If for some reason you are held up and can’t make it, the sooner you contact the hotel, the better (usually by 6 p.m. — Heloise). Many of your better hotels may actually release you from an extra night or go out of their way to accommodate you.

A Reader, via email

Dear Heloise: When people fly, they should make sure that their name and address are located inside each piece of luggage in case it’s lost or delayed. Print out an extra copy of your boarding pass and put it in each piece. This will tell the airline all the information it needs to know. If you have a cellphone, use that as your contact number, and the airline will be able to contact you easily.

Gerri Jellison, Santa Maria, Calif.

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