Dear Heloise: With climate change being a “thing” these days, we see a lot of flooding, snowstorms and extreme heat. Since I taught wilderness survival for a number of years, I thought that I should pass along a few hints to help people survive and thrive in difficult situations outside of their home:

— Never go on a trip without leaving detailed information with a close friend or family member — or, better yet, with both. Let them know the date of your return. When you return, let them know that you’re home. This one simple step has saved more than one backpacker.

— If you get lost in the great outdoors during the evening, before it gets too dark to see, build a fire by digging a firepit with your hands. Use dry items like twigs and leaves. Remember to pack a lighter! You can also build a makeshift shelter from tree branches. Make sure that you also pack an air horn. It can be used to signal your location or scare off animals.

— Water will be your next priority. Always pack enough water for at least two or three days. And you might not be hungry, but even if it’s just for a day of hiking, always have a few energy bars with you.

— Place the following in a lightweight backpack: a lighter, an air horn, energy bars, a lightweight tarp, a rope (you can place the tarp over the rope for shelter), water (no alcohol), bug spray for mosquitoes, and a flare gun if you have one.

Stay put if you are hopelessly lost or try to stay near a trail. You’ll be easier to find. Most people are found quickly, so don’t panic. — Victor M., Ouray, Colorado

RUST ON CLOTHING

Dear Heloise: When I removed my clothing from the dryer, I noticed rust stains on them. What could be causing this? Please help me figure this out. — Cathy E., Monessen, Pennsylvania

Cathy, you probably have a nick or scratch in your dryer. To find out if there is a nick, take an old pair of pantyhose and slip your hand inside. Slowly run your hand over the interior of the dryer drum. The pantyhose will snag on the rusty spot. A hardware store or possibly a paint store will carry a touch-up kit to paint over the rusty spot.

Now, to remove those rust stains, there are commercial products for rust removal on fabric, or you might want to try using vinegar on the rust stains. Never use bleach on rust stains because it will only intensify the stain. — 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 or email: Heloise@Heloise.com.