Those phone-scam calls make me sick

Dear Readers: Today’s Sound Off is about phone scammers.—Heloise “Dear Heloise: I’m sick of phone scammers! Things have gotten so bad, and the scammers have gotten so sophisticated, that I’m afraid to answer the phone if it’s a number I don’t recognize. So now, even if a charity calls, I simply say, ‘I take no solicitations by telephone.’ Then I hang up.

“The other day, I received an email that looked legitimate from my internet carrier, but something cautioned me to phone and inquire whether or not they had actually asked for my Social Security number, along with banking information (which I NEVER give out). They hadn’t sent me an email and told me to report this to the state consumer protection office or to the Federal Trade Commission’s online Complaint Assistant. I’ve been cautious, and I hope others will be as well.”— Marla S. in San Diego

FAST FACTS

Dear Readers: Here are some early holiday hints:

■ Start making your own holiday traditions.

■ Make some new dishes that over time will become holiday favorites.

■ Do as much as you can in advance so you can enjoy the holiday, too.

■ Have the whole family involved in the decorations, food and music.

—Heloise

FILE FOR LIFE Dear Heloise: As a retired member of the fire department, I keep a “File for Life” in case anything should happen to me. I also update all my medications, and I keep one list on my refrigerator and one in my vehicle glove compartment. This is so paramedics can locate it to see what medications I am currently taking to treat my medical issues.—Bill B., Mingo Junction, Ohio

Bill, that’s an excellent idea. Everyone should also take the time to attend to the paperwork needed for a living will, as well as any other important wishes you have. Don’t assume anyone will automatically know what you want. Tell them.—Heloise

SIMPLE LANTERNS Dear Heloise: You can take any jar, even a baby-food jar, and place a votive candle in it to use as a lantern in your garden. Place them around the patio or among the plants, or suspend them by wire or ribbon from tree branches to provide a soft, romantic light for the evening.—Rae-Ann R., Leesville, La.