Dear Heloise: I came upon a FIGHT between three girls, and I was shocked that other witnesses were just standing around filming the fight instead of calling for help.

What should I have done? — Becky D., age 15, in Pennsylvania

Becky, you should have called for help, whether that be a teacher, a parent or 911 for a police officer.

The phenomenon of people watching an “escalated situation” (a fight, a car accident, a fire) is called “the bystander effect.”

When people gather around these scenes, a group mentality can kick in, and people want the “I was there” sensation.

ALWAYS think “safety first.” If someone needs help, get help! Shooting video is not a priority. — Heloise

GET IT IN WRITING

Dear Heloise: My wife said women routinely are given high car-repair estimates, saddled with unnecessary repairs and upsold unknowingly.

My hint is: Always get a written estimate before any work is done, and make sure it is signed by you and the shop. If you have any questions, show the estimate to a knowledgeable friend, or get a second estimate at another shop. — Dave in Waco, Texas

THINK FIRST!

Dear Heloise: To add to the hint that everything online is there forever, people need to remember that all that information can be copied. Even if you delete something you’ve posted, it could have already been copied, pasted and shared.

An age-old saying is helpful to remember, whether you are writing or speaking to someone:

T — is it true?

H — is it helpful?

I — is it inspiring?

N — is it necessary?

K — is it kind?

— A Reader in San Antonio

LATIN LESSON

Dear Readers: If you’re applying for a job, especially in the medical field, you may come upon the term “pro re nata,” or “PRN.” What does it mean? It’s Latin, and it translates to “as needed” or “as necessary.”

You may also see this term on a prescription bottle; take the medicine as needed. Confirm that with your doctor. — Heloise

HIDE THOSE STRAPS

Dear Heloise: I highly recommend women wear a camisole under a sheer blouse. It provides a clean line in the back, and it hides bra straps and hook closures — not attractive! — Carrie R. in San Antonio

I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW

Dear Heloise: My co-worker and I had a disagreement, so my supervisor had us switch desks for the day.

This gave us a totally new perspective on our work environment. This may not be practical for some offices, but it worked great for us. — Colleen N. in Ohio

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.