Dear Heloise: In response to Charlie M., what I have done in the past has helped stop the problem of spray-paint clogs. When you’re finished painting, invert your can and hit the spray button for just a split second. Then you should see the nozzle clear up. I’ve done it for years, and it works for me. — Floyd R., via email

CAR SAFETY ­CONCERN

Dear Heloise: You recently suggested to put keys in a bowl or on a key holder by the door. This is not a smart idea! I know of a family who got robbed when they were not home. A thief broke into their home, took the keys off the key holder, and drove off with the victim’s car full of the victim’s belongings. A better idea is to hide the keys in a safe place where only family members know the location — and to also purchase a security system.

Here’s another suggestion: Keep blinds closed when you’re not at home in rooms like a study where computers and other devices are kept. Don’t set purses, phones, laptops and other items on a table in front of a window or glass doors! That’s just common sense! We can never be too careful.

Thank you! I enjoy your column. — Marie F., in Lancaster, California

FESTIVE PACKING MATERIAL

Dear Heloise: When colorful gift wrap has seen better days, don’t throw it away; reuse it in a new way. Put it through a paper shredder and store in a designated plastic bag to use as festive gift packing material. It’s colorful and economic, and it can be used more than once. In its final incarnation, it deteriorates more easily than mulch in your garden or landfill.

I never miss a day reading the upbeat hints in your column in the Orange County Register. Thank you so much. — S.H., in Anaheim Hills, California

EATING MORE FIBER

Dear Heloise: My doctor said I need more fiber in my diet, but I have no idea where to get fiber. I know some foods have a lot of fiber, but can you suggest a few foods for me? — Troy S., in Wisconsin

Troy, to get you started, there are books online or at a bookstore that go into detail about fiber and which foods are best for you. But here are  few ideas:

— Beans: chickpeas, lima beans, black beans and split peas.

— Whole grains: oatmeal (steel-cut, not instant), quinoa, and brown rice.

— Fruit: all berries, apples, pears and bananas.

— Vegetables: spinach, Brussel sprouts and carrots.

— Nuts and seeds such as sunflower seeds. — Heloise

SOMETHING IS BUGGING ME

Dear Heloise: When I got home today and was unpacking my groceries, I found a live spider — a large one — among the bananas. My neighbor said she took home a large cockroach from a different food store. We both called the stores to report this problem but were told that this happens from time to time.

Next time I’m in my local grocery store, I’ll be a lot more careful about inspecting the items I select! — Lisa, in Texas

Lisa, this probably happens more than we realize. Pantry pests can be shipped undetected with fresh produce, or they can chew a hole big enough to get inside a plastic bag and hide. Some are shipped as eggs and eventually hatch en route to the store. Always wash fresh produce carefully and be sure to inspect everything you buy. — 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.