DEAR HELOISE: I have some hints on how to put together a disaster emergency kit. This season has been rough, with flooding, hurricanes and fires. Here are some items we keep on hand for these situations:
• Batteries, flashlight, radio, cellphone and an extra cellphone charger.
• Bottled water, canned food and a can opener.
• Toolkit and first-aid kit.
• Blankets and extra clothes to layer on.
If we lose electricity in a storm, we consume foods in the refrigerator first, but keep the fridge and freezer closed as much as possible. We follow directions from media outlets as they become available.
-- Don M., Seguin, Texas
DEAR READER: It's always smart to be prepared. Thanks for writing in.
DEAR HELOISE: Tiny "ghost ants" were entering my home by coming under the sliding glass doors. Now, once a month, I spray vinegar on the track. Presto -- no more ants!
-- Buddy N.,
The Villages, Fla.
DEAR READER: I'm all for safe, nontoxic household solutions, and vinegar is a great one! It's also cheap and readily available.
DEAR HELOISE: I have an ant problem in my kitchen. How do I get rid of them without an exterminator?
-- Suzanne L.,
Staten Island, N.Y.
DEAR READER: There are some simple things you can do. First, if you can, find the nest and pour about 3 gallons of boiling water, mixed with one lemon cut into quarters (skin and all), down the center of the mound.
Make sure your kitchen counters/ sinks/floors never have food of any kind on them and are always dry; ants will search for water. Wash the counters or any area where ants come in with a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. This will erase the scent trail ants use to return to food.
DEAR READERS: The boss might not like this, but it's a fact: Taking breaks throughout your workday can increase your productivity.
You need to rest your eyes from your computer -- this will help with stress headaches, too. A walk around, if it's feasible, will allow you to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
Taking breaks helps you accomplish more at work, and that should please the boss!
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
Heloise@Heloise.com
Style on 11/14/2017