Dear Heloise: I am an outside worker, doing lawn maintenance for several businesses. I always have to pick up trash to do my job — used diapers, bottles, cans etc. But now, it’s used masks and gloves that have become the worst part of the job. Please ask your readers to dispose of their trash properly. — Marty M. in Texas

Marty, there really is no excuse for trash being thrown anywhere other than where it belongs. This is especially true now that we have COVID-19 to contend with and the danger it poses. Let’s do our part to keep our environment clean and safe for everyone. — Heloise

IDENTITY THEFT

Dear Readers: We all need to be vigilant and protect ourselves against identity theft. When your personal information is stolen, not only can your credit status be damaged, but it can be costly and time-consuming to restore your good credit standing. Here are a few hints to help safeguard your information:

* Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet, and don’t give out your SSN information, unless absolutely necessary.

* Collect your mail every day.

* Compare your bank account statements with credit card purchases. Watch for any purchases or transactions that you didn’t authorize.

* Review your credit report every year. Be sure there are no accounts included that you did not open.

* Do not share your personal information (birthdate, account numbers, etc.)

* Activate the security features on your cellphone.

* Have virus detection software on your home computer.

* Shred all receipts, account statements and credit offers to keep thieves from going through your trash and gaining your personal information.

* Cut up expired credit cards.

* If you bank online, check your bank statement every day.

Unfortunately, identity theft is prevalent these days, but following these safeguards could help prevent someone from stealing your good name to commit fraud. If you fall victim, report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission online at IdentityTheft.gov or call 877-438-4338. — Heloise

HANG MORE CLOTHES

Dear Heloise: I have very limited closet space in my apartment and only one rod to hang my clothes. So, to be able to hang all of my blouses, skirts, pants, etc., I bought an 18-inch piece of chain and looped an end link over a metal hanger and hung the hanger on the rod, letting the rest of the chain hang down. I then attached several other metal hangers through the chain links at different intervals. Now I have enough room to hang everything and my closet looks organized and neat. — Karen via email

COOLER WEATHER

Dear Readers: As we move toward cooler weather, please take your pets inside on chilly fall nights. After all, a pet is a family member and needs to be loved and protected. And no, a doghouse does not provide enough shelter when temperatures become frigid in the winter. — Heloise

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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.