Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: Since my kind brother gave me a digital camera, I’ve discovered some great security uses for it.

I photographed valuables and equipment throughout the house. I was even able to add voice commentary! After copying the information onto a CD, I left it at a relative’s house in case it’s needed after a fire, theft or flood.

Before taking a trip, I photographed the clothes, shoes, etc., that I was packing and downloaded these to my computer. When I returned with everything intact, I simply deleted the photos — no expense at all. — J.D. Hyman, Brea, Calif.

Dear Heloise: We buy mints that come in tins, then save the tins for the many uses we have found for them. Here are a few: Use to store paper clips, rubber bands, safety pins, thumbtacks, an eyeglass-repair kit, different-colored buttons, small amounts of confetti, pushpins, etc. — C. Chapman, Queensbury, N.Y.