Dear readers: When you called in or dropped off your last prescription, did you check it when you picked it up to make sure that you got what the doctor ordered?

When you have film developed, you usually check the photos before you buy them, right? So why not check your prescriptions? Remember, even the best pharmacy can make mistakes.

Every time you pick up a prescription, whether it is new or a refill, read the label. Are your name and the doctor's name correct? Is the dosage the right strength? Confirm how often you are supposed to take a new medication.

Some pharmacy labels now include the color and shape of the pill that should be inside. If yours doesn't and it's a new one, ask the pharmacist for a description. If yours looks different, ask the pharmacist.

P.S.: Many drug names are similar, so be sure that you are getting an antacid, not an antidepressant!

Dear Heloise: I have a hint that I would like to share. I belong to the Friends of the Atlanta Public Library, and we have a couple of bake sales a year to raise money for the library. I go to the local retail shop and buy old dinner plates for 25 cents each or less. I put my baked goods on those plates and sell them in the bake sale. No worry about getting the plate back, and it is a way to recycle old, mismatched plates. — Judy Lynch, Atlanta, Texas

Dear Heloise: My family doesn't eat out often, but the local newspaper regularly includes coupon offers from chain restaurants for lunch and dinner. However, the coupons don't always appear in all newspapers, so I started clipping them and including one in each birthday or anniversary card I send. Many friends have mentioned what a thoughtful idea it is. — Ann, Fredericksburg, Va.

Dear Ann: Just make sure the coupons are redeemable in the recipient's area.

Dear Heloise: Instead of trying to remember different "expiration" dates for a variety of items in my home, I just replace everything on predetermined dates throughout the year: 1/1, 4/1, 7/1 and 10/1. On these dates, everyone gets a new toothbrush, I replace my mascara, change the kitchen sponges and the baking soda in the fridge and freezer, toss and replace the bath gel, scrubbies in the shower ... the list goes on and on.

This timesaving technique has made my life much simpler and easier than in days past, when I tried to keep track of everything with separate dates on a list! — Darcie Crawford, via e-mail

— Heloise is a columnist for King Features Syndicate. Hints can be sent to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, faxed to 210-HELOISE or e-mailed to Heloise@Heloise.com. She can't answer letters personally but will use the best hints received in her column.