Take photos or videos of valuables

DEAR HELOISE: I walked around my home the other day and realized that it’s filled with new high-tech equipment (flat-screen TVS and computers), along with family treasures and heirlooms, like my jewelry. How can I document this so that I have a record for my family and for insurance purposes?

— Maureen of New York DEAR MAUREEN: Use your high-tech equipment to document everything in your home in case of a flood, fire or burglary. Use your smartphone or digital camera to take pictures or videos of jewelry, antiques, paintings, computer equipment or anything of sentimental value. Store one set of photos and videos on your computer and make copies for your safety deposit box or give to a relative for safekeeping. You will need these records for insurance claims. And if you have treasured old photos, store them safely and make copies.

DEAR READERS: Watermelon is a summertime treat. Watermelon is aptly named because it’s more than 90 percent water and surprisingly, it’s a member of the cucumber family. When you are buying, pick the watermelon up — it should feel heavy for its size, which indicates it’s juicy and fresh. Store watermelons in a cool area until you slice them. Cut watermelon should be refrigerated.

DEAR READERS: Doesn’t it drive you crazy when you’ve just cleaned your stainless steel f latware and you notice it still looks spotted? Hard water may be the cause of the problem. To eliminate spots, lightly dampen a cloth with warm or hot vinegar, which will get rid of hard-water spots. Rub the cloth over the spotty areas, rinse well and dry quickly. When hand-washing flatware, don’t let it air-dry.

DEAR HELOISE: After my family and I have a great day at the beach, it’s easy to track that beautiful sand into our car and home. Heloise, help me.

— Sarah from New Jersey DEAR SARAH: After you and your family members leave the beach, and before getting to the car, have baking soda on hand. Sprinkle a healthy amount of it on the top and bottom of everyone’s feet and in between the toes because it will help to get the sand off quickly.

To keep sand from getting on car seats, buy cheap plastic shower curtains and drape them over the seat. This will keep the seats from becoming wet and will contain the sand.

▶ To share a hint, write to P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000.