That's not Chanel No. 5 you're wearing

Skunks from Idaho to Michigan have wreaked havoc on homeowners this year. The drought in the West, along with baby skunks leaving the den in August, have made for big business among pest controllers and nightmares for homeowners. Here are tips for keeping skunks at bay and for deodorizing your clothes if you get sprayed.

• A small amount of ammonia or cayenne pepper placed near garbage cans deters skunks.

• If you do get sprayed, try this mixture to rid your clothes of the smell: Mix 16 ounces of hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of liquid soap. Stir into a paste and apply with a cloth. Rinse and repeat.