Hints from Heloise

Mon., Nov. 12, 2007

The Spokesman-Review

Dear Heloise: Your column is the first thing I read in the newspaper every day. I want to add a couple of things to recent hints I have read.

Regarding the abundance of small power supplies that seem to power everything these days, especially cell phones: When I buy a new item, I use the color-dot system. I place a dot of color on the power supply and the item and plug. If there is a “top” to the plug, I always put the dot on the top side, so I know which way to “install” the plug into the device. You can use just about any color/dot combination.

My second suggestion is about carrying batteries in your purse: I don’t think it is a good idea to carry them loose. What I have found is that the smaller ones fit in an empty pill bottle quite nicely. Simply slip them into a bottle so they stay clean and protected. If the batteries should leak, they are contained and won’t make a mess. – Jim M., via e-mail

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