The following guidelines can help you dispense and store medicines safely--and protect your family's privacy, too.

• To give liquid medicine, use only the measuring device that came with it. Dosing cups and spoons often are different sizes or have different markings.

• Keep medications for people separate from pets' medications. Mix-ups are common and can be dangerous.

• Don't store medicines in the bathroom or in direct sunlight. Humidity, heat, and light can affect drugs' potency and safety. Keep drugs in their original containers, and place them in a locked box or cabinet where children can't see or reach them.