Fridge list can still come in handy

While we all have cellphones, they do lose their juice and might need to be charged at an inconvenient time or during an emergency. So, as a backup, to protect your family at home, make a master list of important cellphone numbers, such are police, fire, doctors, poison control, closest hospitals, the vet and family friends/neighbors, and post it on your fridge. You can also save the list on your computer. Then make sure your children have the most important ones in their cellphones.

If you have window air conditioners, they do get used a lot during the hot summer months. If you notice the air conditioner is not cooling well, there are several reasons this can happen. Here’s what to do:

■ Do you have a cat or dog?

They shed quite a bit during the summer. That loose hair can block the filter or go through the mechanism, which can cause a blockage.

■ Examine the filter, then vacuum it, the case and the area around it. If you have a filter that can be removed, rinse it in hot water frequently. Allow it to dry, then put back in.

Cooling should be better.

During the summer, we gather often and like to contribute to the festive activities, by bringing a dish or a dessert. But sometimes, you need to leave early and then have to get the dish back after the event. Here’s a good idea to avoid this hassle:

During the year, look for extra dishes, platters or bowls at garage sales and resale shops. Often, you can find lovely serving dishes and glassware for just a few bucks. Store them in one area, then when you are going to a gathering, you can pull out one of these finds to use for the dish you are bringing. Then you can leave it behind as a gift for the hostess.

When you are painting a room and you suddenly notice that the paint is beginning to wrinkle, here’s what you can do to correct or stop it. Take these steps:

First, check the area to see if you have been applying too much paint or if the paint is too thick. To correct, you can thin the paint, which will create a lighter application (directions on how to thin it should be on the paint can.) You can also sand the surface and reapply a lighter coat.

Kids love their rubber toys and playing with them. But they do get dirty and need to be cleaned. Try this nontoxic way to get the job done:

When you realize the rubber toys are grimy or slimy, put them in a gallon-size bucket or container. Fill it with water and at least 2 cups of vinegar. Let the toys soak 5 to 10 minutes. Wipe off with a clean sponge, rinse in clean water and allow to air dry.