The early bird gets to take off on time

Dear Heloise: When I travel, I always try to book airline flights for the earliest departure in the day, especially if I have to catch a connecting flight to another city. This way, I can get ahead of any delays, which start stacking up as the day goes on.—Hillary G., Woburn, Mass.

SURVIVOR BENEFITS Dear Readers: If your spouse has passed away, you are entitled to claim Social Security survivor benefits at age 60, in addition to your own retirement benefits. The survivor benefits are based on what your spouse earned.

However, the amount can vary, so you should check with Social Security in your area, or go online (https://www.ssa.gov/ planners/survivors/ifyou5.html) for more information.—Heloise

MEDICATION WARNING Dear Heloise: Just a reminder for all of your readers: Never pack your medications in your luggage. If you are flying, always have it in a carry-on. If you are driving to a destination, have your medication either in the glove compartment or in a separate little bag for easy access.—Fred S., Little Falls, Minn.

GUMMY SITUATION Dear Heloise: How do I get gum out of my carpet?—Kathy F., Grand Island, Neb.

Kathy, get a metal pan and fill it with ice, then set the ice-filled pan on top of the gum and wait for it to harden. When it finally becomes frozen and hard, use a dull knife to scrape off as much as possible. For the remaining gum, use a dry-cleaning solvent on a clean cloth.—Heloise