Dear Heloise: Your advice was great about getting your pets microchipped. I’d also like to add that everyone should have collars with a name and phone number for their pets. You can make the ID tag yourself at many pet stores or even order them online already made-up. Even indoor pets need them, as they can easily slip out while doors are open. — Kathy Nelson, Montgomery, Texas

SILICONE

BAKING MATS

Dear Heloise: In response to the issue with keeping parchment paper flat on baking sheets, I suggest using silicone baking mats instead. They are inexpensive, reusable for years and environmentally friendly.

I’ve used mine for many years. The only time I use parchment paper now is when baking food “en papillote.” Thank you for all that you do. — D.J., in Orange County, California

PORCH PIRATES

ARE THIEVES

Dear Heloise: I recently saw the piece on porch pirates in your column. This is incorrect. They are not porch pirates; they are no different than any other thief and should be called out as such.

“Porch pirates” sounds more akin to little kids dressed like Captain Jack Sparrow on Halloween. Calling these thieves “pirates” makes them sound like benign nuisances rather than the trouble they really are, as if they’re something we should all just tolerate because pirates are so much fun!

Stop calling them anything except what they are: lowlife thieves. — J.T., via email

CLEANING

FAN GRILLS

Dear Readers: Take note that vinegar does a great job of cleaning. You can wipe exhaust fan grills and ceiling fans with full-strength vinegar to cut the grease and dust — and keep the fresh air circulating.

I have put together a six-page pamphlet with even more vinegar uses, called “Heloise’s Fantabulous Vinegar Hints and More!” To order a pamphlet, go to www.Heloise.com. You can also get this useful pamphlet by sending $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001,San Antonio, TX,