HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: I know we live in a tech-savvy world, but mobile phones can easily get lost or stolen. I went to an engraver and had a small plaque engraved with “Reward $50. Call …” and my phone number at my office. I then glued it to my phone case. I could always replace the phone, but not the pictures, contacts and other info on my phone.

— Rita H. in San Francisco DEAR READER: Rita, I like that idea. A reward is a nice way to say, “Thank you.”

DEAR HELOISE: Please let your readers know that if they are going to clean their computer screens, to use a damp — not wet — microfiber cloth that won’t scratch the surface. Do not spray a liquid onto the screen, but rather onto the cloth. In between a damp wipe, clean dust off the screen with a chalkboard eraser. Use compressed air on the keyboard. — Brian K., Niagara Falls, N.Y.

DEAR HELOISE: With my 79th birthday coming soon, I think about things I wish I had done. For those still young, here is a suggestion: Keep a diary. It will be an interesting read for your children and grandchildren. While you still have time, spend much of it with your loved ones. I wish I could go back in time and tell certain people how much they meant to me.

— Doug J., Watson, La.

DEAR HELOISE: I painted the discs around the key slots in my door locks with fingernail polish. Makes them much easier to see, whether day or night.

— J.M.C., via email DEAR READER: J.M.C., now that’s a good idea.

DEAR HELOISE: The pluses and minuses for batteries on a device can be hard to see. When putting batteries into devices (flashlights, remote controls, etc.), put the flat end of the battery against the spring.

— Mary H., Arlington, Va.

DEAR HELOISE: We have been invited to a birthday party for a 3-year-old, and on the invitation was printed “No gifts, house too little, too many toys. Please, gift cards or monies.” What do you say?

— Alice, via e-mail DEAR READER: Alice, I think a gift card to a children’s clothing store or somewhere else would be OK.