How to stay safe when using dockless scooters

Dear Readers: DOCKLESS ELECTRIC SCOOTERS are a new, environmentally safe, cheap and convenient method to quickly get around town, but there are concerns. Laws vary from city to city; everyone’s safety is paramount. Here are a few things to know about dockless scooters:

There’s an app for them. Riders download the app and scan a code to get started.

Helmets, pads and eye protection aren’t required but are strongly encouraged.

Riders must ride with both feet on the scooter and ride in the bike lane, not on the sidewalk.

Riders should leave their scooters by a bike rack, if available.

Riders may have to have a valid driver’s license.

Check your city’s official website for more information and regulations. Heloise

P.S. As far as fees, there’s typically a small initial fee, then a per-hour charge.

Dear Readers: Meet Melania and dachshund Duke. Cheryl G. in San Antonio just adopted Melania, a 4-month-old, 5-pound half piebald dachshund and half Chihuahua, from a dachshund rescue

group after Melania’s previous owner passed.

These two are so cute, and they’ve quickly bonded. Melania has one ear that folds over and one that stands up — maybe to listen to Duke?

To see Melania and Duke, visit www. Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.” Do you have funny and furry friends? Lots of times, two are better than one! Share your pictures and stories at Heloise@Heloise.com. Heloise

Dear Heloise: My wife and I differ on how one should dispose of eggshells. She says that you should not put the shells in the disposal. I disagree and feel that you can.

I heard some time back that you can sharpen the blades of the disposal by grinding clamshells or oyster shells in it. An eggshell should be no problem. Who’s right? Pete, via email

Pete, let’s take a crack at settling this argument. The eggshell has a fibrous lining that can wrap itself around the blades of the disposal. Eggshells should go in the compost pile and not in the garbage disposal. If you don’t compost, then the trash is the best place for eggshells.

As for sharpening the blades, every so often, freeze vinegar into cubes and toss a handful of them down the running disposal. Vinegar is a workhorse all over the house — it’s cheap, readily available and safe. I’ve compiled a collection of my favorite vinegar hints in a handy pamphlet. Would you like to receive one? It’s easy! Visit www.Heloise.com to order, or send a stamped (70 cents), selfaddressed, long envelope, along with $5, to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Heloise