Daily Preparedness

The images coming out of Haiti are heart-breaking and as generous souls, we all want to do our part to alleviate the catastrophic suffering we see on a daily basis. As with all modern disasters, the Haiti earthquake has unleashed a secondary storm of disaster–the charity scammers. Within hours of a major disaster, fake charities, websites and phone solicitors arise from the ashes to ply us with pleas for assistance. Sometimes sounding like recognized charities, or ‘collecting’ in their name, these scamming vultures move quickly and effectively. They want your money and in the latest schemes, your identity, computer files and credit card information.

In order to protect yourself from these unscrupulous vultures, follow these suggestions:

• Never link through an unsolicited charity email. Go to the charity’s own website from your own web browser. Be certain that the site is legitimate.
• The newest scams involve virus-laden websites that infect your computer with a virus and then cause a virus alert message to appear. It then tries to sell you virus protection software, which is actually malware. These sites will pop up if you search for Haiti and earthquake.
• Before giving to any charity, know what percentage of your donation will go to aid, what percentage may be diverted to other causes and what percentage is for ‘overhead’.
• Know that in most cases, the best thing you can give after a disaster is cash. Truckloads of clothing, furniture & bedding are often left to rot because there is no mechanism to distribute it after a large disaster.
• If you have goods that can be sold, sell them and donate the cash to a reputable charity.
• Do not respond to unsolicited phone calls pleading for money.
• Do not give cash to individuals coming to your home, place of business or in public asking for donations in the name of a charity. Instead, give directly to the charity.
• Ask if the charity is a 501c3. Ask to see their annual report. Ask for contact information for the headquarters. If they refuse to answer your questions, don’t donate.
• Beware of text message donations. You will most likely be paying the texting charges and fighting a fraudulent charge may be difficult. Also, do not text credit card or other personal information.
• If donating online, do so only through reputable charities’ websites and only those that begin with https
• The safest way to make a donation is with a check made out to the charity. You will then have a ready-made receipt for tax purposes.
• Ask the charity what help they are currently providing in the area. How many people are they currently serving? What other organizations are they working with?
• Do an internet search for the charity in question. Look for independent news reports of aid they are currently providing in the area they claim to be serving.
• Ask the charity what will happen to excess funds collected. How will they use them?
• Never give out your credit card or bank information over the phone, especially when the phone call is unsolicited.
• With any phone solicitation, ask the caller to send written materials. Do not donate unless they do so. Even then, be cautious.
• Know that countless ‘charities’ and ‘foundations’ prey on the elderly. They send statements that look like bills, rely on their instinctive generosity and employ a variety of other unsavory techniques. If you have elderly family members, watch their bank accounts for such donations. Some frauds include using the information on checks sent in to set up automatic electronic withdrawals.
• Avoid giving to newly established charities, especially after a major disaster.
• Every state attorney general’s office will have information on legitimate and fraudulent charities. If you believe that you have encountered a fraudulent charity, contact the AG office immediately.
• Decide what you can reasonably afford to donate and donate it to a legitimate charity of your choice. When you are asked for donations by others, simply say, “We’ve already donated.”

One of the most effective and fast-responding charities is LDS Humanitarian Services. 100% of your donation will go to assist others, not only in times of disaster but with a wide range of truly wonderful programs. A link to a rapid donation form is available at www.lds.org. For further information about other ways you can support worthwhile efforts around the world, go to http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/

Do not become a secondary casuality of disaster. Be wise in your charitable giving and be certain that your generosity goes to those you wish to aid!

Recent events prove once again that disaster can strike anywhere and at any time. Whether you are at the office, on vacation, going about your daily errands or sitting at home, you may face an unannounced disaster. Being prepared ahead of time with the simplest of supplies can make the difference between life and death, safety and serious injury.

One man caught in the Haiti earthquake found his way to safety relatively quickly with the aid of a small, inexpensive flashlight. This one small device, clamped to his cell phone, allowed him to pick his way through the rubble and find safe shelter after the devastating earthquake. Though we may never encounter an earthquake, there are a myriad of situations that could leave us stranded in the midst of chaos. Thinking and planning ahead of time are your best defenses!

In addition to your home-based 72-hour kit and your automobile emergency kit, considering preparing small kits that you keep in your office, briefcase and luggage. College dorm rooms should all have at least the basics! The size and quantity of items you place in your kit will be determined by where you store it. For most items, look for ‘mini’ versions in the travel and sports sections of discount stores. Your basic ‘To Go’ Kit should include:

1. Small flashlight and batteries. Store batteries outside of the flashlight. Many companies also sell really small flashlights that can be clamped on to your keys or cell phone. Such flashlights do not have always have easily replaceable batteries, but will provide instant light to help you locate your other supplies. Remember, too, that many cell phones can become temporary flashlights when their screens illuminate.

2. Long term water. ‘Water Blox’ and similar brands of water designed for long term storage at a variety of temperatures are readily available.

3. Power Bars. Store several high calorie bars, either ones from the grocery store or the type certified by the Coast Guard.

4. Heavy duty trashbags. Trashbags can become a variety of things including weather protection, shelter, blocking air, etc.

5. Small roll of duct tape. A brightly colored or fluorescent mini-roll would be the best option.

6. ‘Swiss Army’ type knife. One of the most compact styles is the size of a credit card. Make sure you have one with scissors and don’t forget to remove it from your carry-on luggage.

7. Hand sanitizer.

8. Cash and coins. Remember that a mini-M&M tube will hold quarters and rolled bills.

9. ‘Space blanket’. These are lightweight and can be used for protection from the cold as well as signalling.

10. Pocket sized tissues.

11. Feminine hygiene products. In addition to the obvious, they make great pressure bandages.

12. N-95 mask. Many disasters involve large amounts of contaminated dust and other particles. Get a mask that fits tightly against your mouth and nose.

13. Local map. If you had to walk home from your office, would you know the best route? What about alternate routes? Mark your map with the homes of friends, fire stations, police stations & hospitals. Use a fine point permanent marker and code your marks such as ‘F’ for friend, ‘P’ for police, ‘H’ for hospital.

14. First aid supplies. Pack as many as you can in the space you have available.

15. Backpack. Being able to easily carry what you have is critical. For a mini-kit, consider a ‘fanny pack’ or small backpack that is lightweight and folds compactly.

16. Communications. Cell phone with phone numbers & email addresses (include out of town family contact as well as local friends), a small radio, paper, pencil, permanent marker. If you are leaving your office, leave behind a note that states your name, time & date you left and where you are headed.

17. Medications. If you must have daily or emergency medications, ALWAYS carry at least a 3-day supply with you. This would include medications for allergies, heart condition, blood pressure, diabetes, asthma or any other condition that could become critical without medication.

18. Walking shoes and socks. Your office kit should include a pair of closed toe shoes and socks that you can walk well in.

19. A few waterproof matches.

20. Compass. There are many small ones available in sporting good stores.

21. Whistle. Whistles are critical for signaling. Purchase a sturdy plastic one. There are some on the market that combine a whistle, flashlight and compass.

22. A change of clothes. If your workplace, or surrounding area, were affected by a biochemical incident, you would need to be able to change your clothes. Pack clothes that can be layered.

23. ID card. Have a card in your kit with your name, home address, phone number, emergency contact, blood type & any pertinent medical history.

Instead of evacuating, circumstances may require you to remain in your office for several days. The supplies in your kit will make such a situation safer and more comfortable.

In addition to supplies, set goals to learn some basic skills such as first aid, basic signaling and hiking.

Mentally prepare yourself. Know the most likely disasters that could occur in your area—are they natural or man made disasters? Think through evacuation routes and develop a family communications plan. If you are in a carpool, make a plan for meeting in the case of an evacuation order.

If you are traveling internationally, especially in less developed countries, register your trip with the U.S. Embassy or consulate. Know where the embassy is!

Always remember that immediately after any major disaster, you are most likely going to have to rely on yourself and those around you. Planning and preparation will be your greatest allies!

New Year’s Resolutions–easily made, quickly forgotten and fodder for guilt! Instead of feeling bad about yourself when April arrives and your resolutions are all but forgotten, set goals that will allow you to slowly but surely attain a more provident lifestyle. The changes need not be drastic or accomplished all at one time. Provident living is not a one-time event, but rather a mindset, a lifestyle, a commitment to viewing today in context of the years that lie ahead. No matter where you are on the Provident Living Spectrum, making consistent changes will brighten your tomorrows.

As you evaluate where you are, consider these dozen ideas:

1. Debt: If you are out of debt, stay out! If you are in debt, resolve to acquire NO further consumer debt and pay down your debt as quickly as possible. Tell yourself ‘No’ frequently until your debt balance is at zero. Buy used and apply the savings to your debt load. Put away the credit cards and pay cash. Do whatever you have to do to get out from under the slavery of debt.

2. Savings: Pay yourself each payday. Save whatever you can, wherever you can. Keep your savings in a secure, insured account. Teach your children to save and to be wise consumers.

3. Employment: Be certain that your resume is prepared and up-to-date. Improve your skills and be on the look-out for employment opportunities. If you are threatened with unemployment, begin your job search before you are laid off. Let everyone know that you are looking for employment!

4. Education: Be certain that your children understand the value of obtaining the best education possible. Teach them from middle school on that what they do in the six years after elementary school will affect their ability to be admitted to college and win scholarships. Help your teens find every scholarship opportunity possible. Teach your teens about the dangers of acquiring unnecessary student and credit card debt. If you need to return to school, seek grants, scholarships or employer-funded opportunities. Continually learn new skills that will help you live providently: gardening, canning, home repairs, computer skills, sewing, baking, cooking, etc. Be certain that every member of your family has the necessary life skills to enter the world prepared to be self-reliant.

5. Be a wise steward: Take care of what you own so that it will last and serve you well. The greatest ‘green’ thing you can do is to make what you have last as long as possible.

6. Prepare for ‘everyday’ emergencies: The largest percentage of ‘emergencies’ that we will face are the ‘everyday’ sorts–unexpected illness, injury, a flooded basement, etc. An orderly life and home makes it easier to deal with these types of events. Train your family to keep the home running smoothly. Have extras at home–extra cash, extra food, extra cleaning supplies. Know where your important papers and phone numbers are. Evaluate the most likely larger emergencies you might face and prepare with evacuation kits (72-hour kits or Bug Out Bags), emergency supplies such as first-aid kits, extra lighting, cooking, etc. ‘Prepare every needful thing…’

7. Store food and essential supplies: Even if you purchase and set aside a few canned goods each shopping trip, build a supply of food that you can rely on. Begin by purchasing ‘everyday’ foods until you have a 3-month supply. Store some water, extra hygience products, laundry soaps, etc. When you have accomplished your 3-month supply, slowly acquire long-term staples such as grains, sugar, salt and powdered milk.

8. Develop emotional resiliency: Learn to take the upheavals of life in stride emotionally (which is easier when you are living providently). Learn to appropriately deal with stress, anxiety, disappointment and develop a support structure that will assist you. Develop a greater faith and testimony of the eternal nature of your life so that the daily ups and downs are seen in the proper perspective. Learn to laugh. If you need professional help, seek it from a trained professional that shares your core values.

9. Build your spiritual muscles: Like physical muscles, spiritual muscle must be built over time. Do not wait until the tempest is raging to learn to seek Divine Guidance and Strength. Serve others and forget yourself as you lift another.

10. Practice Prevention: Prevent accidents whenever possible. Make your home and your car as safe as possible. Teach your children to behave appropriately and how to react to danger. Seek preventative medical care from competent professionals. Think before acting and research before leaping!

11. Plan ahead: Live today fully, but look towards the future. Plan economically, physically and mentally for events that you know will occur. Whether it is a birthday, Christmas or retirement, many of life’s events can be accurately predicted and planned for. Continually living in a state of ‘last-minutitis’ increases stress and nearly always results in frayed nerves, greater expenditures and wasted effort.

12. Practice happiness: Happy people are more likely to successfully navigate the world without relying on impulse buying, addictive substances or other self-destructive behaviors. Find joy in the simple things of life and make your home a haven from the cares of the world. If your home is a simple cave, make it the brightest, happiest, most laughter-filled cave imaginable.

Provident Living is not a drudgery or ‘doomsday’ way of looking at life. Rather, it is the best guarantee that you and those you love will be safe, secure, strong and happy no matter what life throws your way. Make 2010 a year in which you embrace and find joy in being not only self-reliant but able to reach out to others. In that, you will find the greatest of joy!

If any of you are like me, Christmas stocking stuffing can be an expensive and often frustrating part of Christmas cheer.  You can spend a great deal of money for little ‘doo-dads’ that are often forgotten too quickly. Instead of meaningless dribble, consider stuffing those pesky stockings with useful items for your 72-hour kit (or Bug Out Bags as some folks call them). These items need not be boring or too terribly practical–make them fun by personalizing them, adding some glitz or mixing in with non-essential items. These ideas also translate well into the small daily gifts of Advent calendars or Hanukkah celebrations. Some ideas to think about include:

• Small flashlights for each bedroom. The best ones have a lanyard or other string attached so that they can hang from a bedpost, out of sight. Find ones in bright, fun colors or the small ultra-bright LED flashlights. There are even ones that you can bend!

• Batteries for those electronic gadgets & flashlights. Consider rechargeable batteries so that you can quit buying batteries every few weeks.

• Waterproof matches and container

• Swiss army knife –there is one available that is the size of a credit card and holds all sorts of cool stuff. Again, they come in lots of bright, fun colors.

• Screwdriver set–a mini set is a great thing to have in each car as well as your 72-hour kit

• Compass or a combination whistle and compass device

• Reflective mirror

• Small toiletries, including a disposable razer, travel sized toothbrush and tooth paste, small soap, shampoo and lotion. Check out the travel section at your local discount store for other items.

• ‘Space’ emergency blanket

• Folding cup

• Camp utensil set and/or ‘mess kit’

• Pocket size survival and/or first aid guide

• Rain poncho

• Hand and/or foot warmers

• Key chain whistle and/or flashlight

• Thermal socks and/or wool mittens/gloves

• A wool ‘watch’ cap–the type used by the military is warm, water repellent and folds compactly.

• Small first aid kit

• Small, purse sized holder for band-aids

• Mini battery operated alarm clock

• Headlamp style flashlight

• ‘Power’ bars

• 100 hour candle

• Water purifying tablets or ’sani straw’ device

• Long shelf life boxed water

• Pocket-sized package of toilet paper and tissues. Some of the dollar stores have them in fun wrappers such as Hello Kitty.

• A Bowie knife with sheath

• Flint and steel

• Small knife sharpener

• Mini first aid primer–check with your local Red Cross or County Extension office for free ones

• CPR mouth shield

• Small card games or other sources of entertainment such as Sudoku books

• Mini sewing kit–you can easily assemble one in an old prescription bottle (be sure to wash it out) or empty 35mm film canister. Include several sharp needles, thread, thread clipper, buttons, a snap and several safety pins

• Travel sized hand sanitizer, hand wipes and disinfectant spray

• Jumper cables

• Small size roll of duct tape. Look for bright colors or fun prints.

• Small roll of heavy twine or rope

You might also consider making mini-kits for each car, the office or your college-bound student.

Check out the camping aisles and see what little goodies might be interesting and helpful. You never know what you might find! You may also find that hunting gear and summer sports equipment is on the clearance rack.

And be sure to save all of that excess hard candy you and your family receive during the holidays. Seal it up tight in a ziploc bag, food saver bag or other air tight container to add to your long-term storage and 72-hour kits.

Note: I read an article by an infectious disease specialist who recommended that in addition to routine hand washing, have all members of your family wash their hands and gargle with either warm salt water or antiseptic mouth wash whenever they return home. Nasal passages can be cleaned with a neti pot or saline spray. These measures help to remove the viral agents from areas of our bodies where they grow. Gargling and saline spray can also be done mid-day while at work. The recommendations are logical and inexpensive!

Note: President Obama today (October 24) declared the H1N1 a ‘National Emergency’. It is too early to know how this declaration will affect our daily lives, but it would be wise to be fully prepared to be self-sufficient within your home and watch for news updates.

Epidemic, pandemic…the news throws the words around so often now that we may become immune to the reality of what these words mean and how they may affect us. What do we really need to know and what can we do to prepare ourselves?

First, we need to understand what the words mean.

An epidemic is the occurrence of more than expected number of cases of a disease within a community or population, within a given amount of time.

A pandemic is an epidemic spread out over a larger geographic area such as a state, country, nation or the world.

Not all epidemics or pandemics are deadly, but they can disrupt not only the lives of the ill, but society as a whole.

Epidemics are often, hopefully, prevented by administering vaccines. These vaccines are often developed to protect the population rather than just the individual. If a large enough portion of the population is vaccinated against a specific disease, the illness will not spread as quickly or virulently.

Some vaccines are given not for the benefit of the person receiving them, but for others around them. An example of this is the Rubella vaccine. Rubella is a highly contagious, non-serious disease common among children. However, if a pregnant woman contracts Rubella in the early stages of pregnancy, the fetus is likely to have severe and life-threatening defects. Thus, children are vaccinated not to protect them, but to protect unborn fetus’.  By doing so, epidemics of Rubella, which result in large numbers of babies born with serious birth defects, are prevented through mass vaccination.

Epidemics are a ‘fact of life’ in human history. Prior to the advent of international air travel, world-wide pandemics were less common but have occurred. The risks of a pandemic today are much higher, mainly due to the ease with which people travel around the world quickly. Where our predecessors took weeks to cross the ocean (during which time illness became apparent and ill individuals were refused entry), we now span the same distance in hours, with little or no screening for infectious diseases. A symptom-free, but contagious individual could easily board a flight in Europe, infect a large number of people on the airplane and hours later be in the U.S. The fellow passengers on the flight are most likely to disperse to any number of final destinations, carting their luggage and pathogens with them. The seeds of a pandemic are now sown.

Let’s imagine the reality of being caught in an epidemic or pandemic. What could we expect and how can we prepare? (Having lived through a several months-long epidemic, I will draw on my own experience and the research I have since done.)

Depending on the seriousness of the disease, an epidemic in its infancy may not be sufficiently reported. It may take time for cases to be reported to health authorities and the medical community may be slow to ‘connect the dots’. Let us examine several scenarios– a small scale epidemic, a regional epidemic and a true pandemic. How do you recognize each, how would your life be impacted and what can you do to prepare?

A SMALL SCALE EPIDEMIC

Scenario: Among a group that you belong to, a school, church, workplace, organization, etc., members become ill in fairly rapid succession. It may begin with one or two, but spreads among the membership. Each member goes to a different doctor, so no single doctor knows that others are infected with the same illness. Remember, an epidemic is an unusual number of cases of the same disease. In this scenario, we will assume that the illness is serious enough to require medical attention and some hospitalizations occur. You hear reports of a death from the illness.

What can you do as an organization?

1. Track outbreaks and should there seem to be an epidemic occurring, act quickly.

2. Survey members of your group to see how many are ill and what their symptoms are. If the symptoms are gastrointestinal and all occurred within a short period of time, check the calendar to see if a meal was shared. If so, you likely have an outbreak of food poisoning. In that case, let membership know and have them seek appropriate treatment. If the illness is NOT food related, continue on:

3. Cancel group meetings if you suspect an outbreak within your membership.

4. Notify all members of your group of the outbreak of the illness, including the symptoms and where to seek help.

5. Stop the delivery of meals, contact, etc. among the members within your organization.

6. Sanitize the structure you meet in. Utilize antiseptic cleaners, spray disinfectants, etc.

7. Reinstate meetings, etc. only after you are certain that the outbreak has stopped. Membership should be free from new cases for several days past the suspected incubation period of the disease.

8. When meetings are begun again, utilize appropriate infection control, such as emphasis on hand washing, no handshaking, asking anyone feeling ill to stay home, hand sanitizers available and an emphasis on cleanliness, especially with any form of food preparation.

9. Watch for signs of re-occurrence once meetings are reinstated. Reinstate meetings slowly, with groups of young children being the last to re-establish.

During the epidemic I lived through, the infection (encephalitis) was not confirmed by local health authorities until 8 deaths occurred. Our church, later confirmed to be a ‘cluster’ of infection, acted quicker than the local health authorities. The church leadership followed the above outlined steps and was credited with helping to stop the epidemic and save lives.

How would this scenario impact you and how can you prepare?

1. If the outbreak was within a school or daycare, you would need to have other plans for your children.

2. You would need to be self-sufficient if you rely on this organization for support in the case of an emergency.

3. If it were the workplace, you may find that you must work from home, take vacation time or do without a pay check for some period of time.

4. Think through the organizations you belong to and how they impact your life. If those organizations were removed today, what would you need to be prepared to do for yourself?

The Epidemic Spreads To The Community

Scenario: The illness that you believed was isolated to your organization, appears to be spreading among the community you live in. You hear that more and more people are becoming infected, deaths are reported and hospitals are overwhelmed with cases. Health officials recognize that this illness is highly contagious, serious and the cases are multiplying. Emergency rooms are over-crowded, health care workers are becoming infected, pharmacies are understaffed and overwhelmed, grocery store shelves are emptying, first responders are calling in sick, and community-based services (ie garbage, transportation, etc) are cut back.

How would this affect you?

1. Schools, libraries, gyms, churches and other gathering places may be closed.

2. Medical facilities will be stretched very thin. None life-threatening emergencies may be shuttled out of the emergency room.

3. Your daily routine significantly altered. Grocery store supplies may dwindle, pharmacies run short of meds, businesses closed due to high number of illnesses.

4. Picture what is open on Christmas Day and extend that out for weeks at a time.

5. Health departments may quarantine people. A quarantine order gives government authorities the right to restrict your movement. You may be quarantined to your home—you cannot leave and no one other than emergency personnel may enter.

What can you do?

1. Be prepared!

2. Take an inventory of what you have on hand. Can you remain self-sufficient in your home for weeks to months?

3. Keep prescription medications filled and try to accumulate extras.

4. Avoid large gatherings, tight quarters and anyone that is ill.

Scenario: A pandemic has occurred that has out-stripped medical facilities and other services in a very large geographic area. This is the ‘worst case’ scenario from a large-scale perspective. A localized epidemic can be assisted by bringing in supplies and personnel from an outlying area. In a true pandemic of serious illness, those secondary lines of defense may not be available. The consequences of a real pandemic of serious illness would be much like the aftermath of a large scale natural disaster.

1. Marshall law may be declared so that looting, etc. can be contained and local law enforcement can receive assistance from military units. Under marshall law, many daily civil liberties are suspended. Curfews may be enforced.

2. All government, civil, medical, banking, education and businesses will be affected and curtailed. The ATM may be out of cash. The gas station out of gas.

3. If the illness is deadly, even the ability to bury people will be overrun.

It is difficult to realistically project the reality of this type of pandemic without going into lengthy and morbid detail. If you want to gain some perspective, read about the realities of the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic or the aftermath of disasters such as Katrina or the Tsunamis.

What can you do?

1. Again, PREPARE, PREPARE, PREPARE!

Provident Living is truly a lifestyle that if lived fully will prepare you for any number of man-made, natural or germ-rendered life events. Being able to be self-sufficient within the walls of your own home is your best preparation. Taken one step at a time, this goal is not only reachable but will lead you to a greater degree of financial and emotional security.

Now is the time to evaluate where you stand in your progress toward self-sufficiency.

Despite of our best efforts to prevent and prepare, we may find ourselves tossed about by the winds of illness. Whether we are the patient or the caregiver, now is when you find out how prepared you truly are. How best can we weather the storm?

1. STAY HOME! When you are ill, you need time to recover and there is no better place to do that than your own home. Failure to do so puts you at risk for further illness or injury and spreads the ‘joy’ of contagious diseases. Keep yourself and your sick children home from school, activities and church. Stay home until you are COMPLETELY well and free from a fever (without the aid of a fever reducer such as tylenol) for at least 24 hours, or as long as your physician instructs.

2. SEEK COMPETENT MEDICAL HELP. If your symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, an altered mental status, loss of coordination, seizures, rampant bleeding or other significant change in status, do not delay getting help from a fully equipped emergency room. The first hour of a serious injury, heart attack or stroke is the most critical. For less serious, but still significant illnesses, get help from your physician or urgent care facility. If your symptoms are minor, stay home and take care of yourself. Those with other serious underlying medical issues (including pregnancy) should speak to their physician about when to seek an appointment. If you believe that you may have influenza (regardless of type), call your doctor’s office and ask about receiving Tamaflu or one of the other anti-viral drugs. These medications will not cure the ‘flu’, but they may shorten the duration and severity of your symptoms.

3. THE DOCTOR VISIT. If you need to seek medical help, take with you a list of your current medications. a list of your symptoms, when the illness began and how it has progressed. Stay away from other patients in the waiting room and avoid bringing well children with you–they will distract you and you are exposing them to more germs!

3. UNDERSTAND THE DOCTOR’S RECOMMENDATIONS. If you are too sick to remember, take someone with you and/or write down what you are told. Make certain you understand what the diagnosis is, prescriptions written, expected course of the illness, complications to look for, self-care or therapy needed, comfort measures and when to return for a follow-up. If in doubt, ASK before the medical provider leaves the room.  For more information, reread the post about “SPEAK UP”.

4. KEEP HYDRATED. Unless specifically told not to, nearly all illnesses are aided by remaining well hydrated. Keep water (a sports top bottle reduces spills), juices and electrolyte replacing drinks by the bedside. For small children, offer popsicles frequently. Anyone with a fever needs to be particularly careful to drink much more than normal.

5. RECORD FEVERS. Know how high your temperature is going and how often. Don’t guess, especially with young children.

6. SET UP THE SICK ROOM. Beside the patient’s bed position facial tissues, a small lined trash can, liquids in spill proof/resistant containers, small snack foods that are healthy & easily digested, a method of communication (baby monitor, intercom, cell phone), humidifier if a respiratory illness, entertainment, throat lozenges and other comfort measures suitable for the person’s age and illness, a container with a lid (in case of vomiting), night light, hand wipes or sanitizer, and necessary phone numbers. If you are caring for yourself, do all of this when you first feel sick!

If the patient must be left alone, also place near the bed a phone and phone numbers of family members or neighbors who can help.

7. HAND WASHING. Everyone in the house should be extra careful to strictly follow hand washing recommendations!

8. SLEEP. Sleep is restorative to the human body. Get plenty of rest, but try to maintain your normal sleep cycle.

9. FOOD. Eat healthy foods and remember that it is often easier to digest frequent small meals rather than three larger meals. Use disposable dishes for the ill person. Using disposables for the entire house can be a significant help in keeping the home running smoothly. Be extra careful about food safety. Your body is already fighting one issue, don’t compound it with food poisoning. Now is a good time to use those frozen entrees, canned foods and quick-to-eat foods. Remember that it is okay to eat vegetable soup and crackers for dinner! Keep it healthy, but simple.

10. HUMIDIFIERS. Especially in the winter, indoor air is often dry. Most illnesses with a respiratory component are aided by introducing moisture into the air. Keep the container clean and filled.

11. DRUG INTERACTIONS. Remember that over-the-counter and ‘natural’ remedies are medicine! Many can interfere with or interact with prescription medication. Check with your pharmacist to be certain.

12. COMPLICATIONS. Be watchful that secondary (and often more serious) complications are not developing. If in doubt about a new symptom–ASK! Many insurance companies offer 24-hour nurse hot lines that can often answer that dreaded 2 am ‘is this serious’ type of question.

13. BE PREPARED TO ACCEPT HELP. Be cautious and avoid exposing others to your germs. But, do accept help that is offered if you truly need it and the helper isn’t exposing themselves to illness. For instance, you might ask a neighbor to let you know when they are going to the store. Keep a list of items you need and have cash ready for when they make their next trip. If you need someone to drive you to an appointment and you have a contagious illness, wear a mask. Be certain that help offered and received is what you REALLY need!

14. WHINE APPROPRIATELY. When asked, “How are you?” we humans tend to reply, “Just fine.” Sometimes you need to vent! While recovering from Lyme Disease, I told my husband that I was going to allow myself ten minutes a day to complain. He listens kindly, sometimes offers a suggestion or asks if I need something in particular. Mostly, he is merely sympathetic and that is all that I need. By establishing a ‘time to whine’, I don’t feel guilty about complaining, he knows how I feel and I have successfully vented. Often times, the best gift you can give to a patient or a caregiver is a listening ear.

15. PRACTICE PATIENCE. It is trying to be ill or to be a caregiver. Take it a day (or an hour) at a time. Allow your body to heal completely. The world will continue to turn on its axis without you for a few days.

Prevention and preparation are the keys to riding out the storm of illness. When that storm hits, remember ‘this too shall pass’ and look forward to happier days ahead. And pat yourself on the back for doing such a great job of living providently every day!

NEXT WEEK: Part 4–Quarantine…could it happen and are you ready?

——–This week’s 10×100 Challenge Goals:

“We have been counseled again and again concerning self-reliance, concerning debt, concerning thrift. ….” President Gordon B. Hinckley

This week’s 10×100 Challenge Goals:

22. Make a list of everyone you plan to purchase Christmas gifts for.

23. Pick up Christmas Cards at a discounter or dollar store before the inexpensive ones are sold out.

24. Replace filters in your HVAC system. Write the date you replaced it on the filter. Mark your calendar for the next change date.

25. See what Christmas gifts you may already have on hand. Plan which ones you are going to make.

26. Do a quick comparison of current prices for internet providers. Do you need to change?

27. Clean out one kitchen drawer.

28. Have little ones at home or due to visit? Check childproofing & poison control.

In recognition of National Preparedness Month here in the U.S. (the rest of the world is welcome to join), it is time for a challenge! You can do it! With just over 100 days left in 2009, it is time to buckle down, dedicate yourself and set aside just 10 minutes or less per day. Yes, in less than 10 minutes a day and nearly no money at all, you can improve your preparedness status by leaps and bounds.

The extra days in 2009 can be set aside for holidays, vacations or, even better, utilized to do a more-than-ten-minute job. However you use the days, use them well!

Ready? Set? Go! Here it is, the first installment of 100 things you can do in 10 minutes or less:

1. Program your cell phone phone book with the word ICE (stands for In Case of Emergency). Under that listing, include the name & phone numbers for the person you want to have contacted first in case of an emergency. First Responders and ER personnel know to check your cell phone for this listing.

2. Check your car’s glove compartment and be certain that you have a current registration, inspection receipt, insurance card and insurance contact information.

3. Write down all of your family’s prescription drugs, their RX number, refill date, name of medicine, instructions and the pharmacy phone number. Make a copy for your 72-hour kit.

4. Write out a card for each child’s car restraint seat. Include child’s name, your contact info, another relative’s contact information, child’s pediatrician and important medical history. Attach to the bottom or back right rear of the seat.

5. Schedule your yearly health maintenance check-ups such as mammograms, pap smears, physical exams and immunization review.

6. Place water leak alarms near washing machine, hot water heater and any other area likely to suffer a leak.

7. Wash the dryer lint trap under hot water until water runs freely.

8. Check the tire pressure and tread depth on your tires.

9. Clean out your medicine cabinet and dispose of out-dated medications.

10. Test your smoke detectors & change batteries as needed.

11. Set up a spot for your perpetual grocery list. Let your family know where it is!

12. Photocopy your credit cards & ID. Place copy in your “What If?” Notebook.

13. Check the outside dryer vent. Be certain that vent flaps open freely. Remove any visible lint.

14. Clean the inside of your car windshield. “Stuff” gathers on the inside of the windshield and can cause complete ‘white out’ when you are driving towards the sun.

15. Clean one pantry shelf. Move older food to the front.

16. Write down neighbor’s phone number, doctor’s phone numbers, family contact numbers and place inside a cabinet near the phone.

17. Add at least one long-term storage food to your grocery list. Consider rice, dry beans, sugar, oatmeal.

18. Check outside lights. Replace burned out bulbs.

19. Check your supply of flashlights. Do they work? Do you have batteries for them? One for each room of your house?

20. Clean the trash out of your car.

21. Cook a double entree and freeze the extra one.

22. Make a list of everyone you plan to purchase Christmas gifts for.

23. Pick up Christmas Cards at a discounter or dollar store before the inexpensive ones are sold out.

24. Replace filters in your HVAC system. Write the date you replaced it on the filter. Mark your calendar for the next change date.

25. See what Christmas gifts you may already have on hand. Plan which ones you are going to make.

26. Do a quick comparison of current prices for internet providers. Do you need to change?

27. Clean out one kitchen drawer.

28. Have little ones at home or due to visit? Check childproofing & poison control.

29. Check 401K & pension plan balances. Do you need to save more for retirement?

30. Purchase at least one item for long-term storage.

31. Treat sink & tub drains with baking soda and vinegar.

32. Check children’s toys. Throw out broken ones.

33. Set budget for holiday gift giving. Do you need to save some money?

34. Check nightlights. Do they illuminate areas that need light? Do they work?

35. Find a backpack, tote or other container that can store items in your car.

36. Add jumper cables to your car pack

37. Put some bottled water in your car pack.

38. Put some long-term food such as granola bars in your car pack.

39. Put several ’space’ blankets or wool blankets in your car pack.

40. Add some matches and a candle to your car pack. Pack candle in an empty vegetable can and cover top with aluminum foil.

41. Add an all-in-one screwdriver to your car pack.

42. Add an ‘emergency’ flag to your car pack. This can simply be a piece of bright orange or red fabric.

43. Add a first aid kit to your car pack.

44. Stick a set of fuses in your car pack.

45. Put a flashlight in your car pack. Package the batteries outside of the flashlight.

46. Add a flare to your car pack.

47. Add a can of Fix-a-flat to your car pack.

48. Check your spare tire & tire iron.

49. Check the fluid levels in your car.

50. Put some paper and a pen in your glove compartment.

51. Check your gutters to see if they are running well.

52. Look at your roof from across the street. Does it look solid?

53. Add your doctor’s voice & fax numbers to your cell phone directory.

54. Add a worthwhile item to your 72-hour kit.

55. Grab some 3×5 cards. Write out personal information for each person & add to 72-hour kit. Include out of state contacts, medical information, etc.

56. Check the caulk around the doors and windows of your home. Note which ones need repair.

57. Add some cash and quarters to your glove compartment. An empty prescription bottle or tube from mini-M&M’s work well.

58. Check outdoor walkways. Are they clear? Free from tripping hazards? Cracks?

59. Add one item to your food storage.

60. Gather up your candles and see if you have enough to provide some light for 7-days. Store some matches (more than you think you need) with the candles.

61. Refill BBQ propane tanks if you have them.

62. Clean one pantry shelf. Move older food to the front.

63. Clean out your refrigerator. Discard old food and mark food that needs to be eaten up.

64. Do you need to have your chimney cleaned?

65. Read about one way to cook food without power. Order or gather supplies you would need.

66. Program your pharmacy’s phone number into your cell phone.

67. Check your computer’s firewall and anti-virus strength.

68. Do a quick comparison of auto insurance rates and coverage.

69. Set aside ingredients for a ‘no time to cook’ dinner.

70. Add one item to your two week supply of food that you could eat without cooking.

71. Store some water.

72. Plan holiday meals. Watch for ingredients to go on sale. Don’t forget potluck dinners, treats for neighbors, etc.

73. Do you need to have your furnace checked?

74. Check appliances for frayed cords.

75. Do you have de-icer in your windshield washer fluid?

76. Ice scrapers in each car….unless you live where it never gets cold!

77. Clean out one pantry shelf. Discard out of date food. Move older food to the front.

78. Try a new recipe that utilizes at least two items from your long-term storage.

79. Check supply of over-the-counter medicines such as antihistamines, antidiarrheal, pain killers & anti-inflammatories.

80. Check the caulk around tubs, showers and toilets. Repair or replace as needed.

81. Check your credit cards? Current? Do you have too many?

82. Check your credit report for errors.

83. Be certain your are shredding documents with personal information such as insurance numbers, birthdates, account numbers, social security numbers.

84. Google your name to make sure someone is using it online or writing about you in an unfavorable way.

85. Buy or obtain a free (try freecycle) transistor am/fm radio.

86. Clean out one closet.

87. Add one item to your food storage.

88. Check your doors and windows for air leaks.

89. Make certain that shrubbery around your house does not obscure windows. (burglars love it when they can hide behind a bush while they break your window)

90. Make a place for end of year tax information.

91. Try a recipe utilizing one or two items from your long-term storage.

92. Check your cell phone contract. If out of contract, compare rates.

93. Add a small flashlight to your glove compartment.

94. Check cash supply at home. Be certain you have bills in $20 or less denominations

95. Mail holiday gifts early to avoid paying express shipping charges.

96. Do you need de-icer for walk ways and driveway?

97. Collect loose change and establish place to store it.

98. Add one item to your 2 week supply of foods you could eat without cooking.

99. Add one item to your 72-hour kit.

100. Cook a double entree and freeze the extra!

See, you can do this!!! It is inexpensive, fast and all things YOU can do with little time and money.

Don’t worry, we’ll remind you periodically. Now, get to it! And good luck.

It is that time of year—Jack Frost is on a rampage bringing with him snowstorms, ice, and colder temperatures. Winter time brings with it special preparedness considerations, which may not only keep your more comfortable but prevent injuries, illness and even death.

Our friends at FEMA suggest the following ways to prepare yourself NOW: (I’ve added a few extra tips to FEMA’s—the most important one being that if a storm is announced STAY HOME!!)

Add the following supplies to your disaster supplies kit:

• Rock salt to melt ice on walkways
• Sand to improve traction
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.

Prepare your home and family

• Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove. (Don’t forget your food, medical and hygiene needs! Store medication, candles, water, batteries, flashlights and all of those other things we have talked about. Make certain your children know where to go if they are sent home early and you aren’t home. This is also true of children that go to a caregiver’s home—does the caregiver have an alternate safe place for them to go?)
• Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic. Have your gutters cleaned so that melting snow has a place to go.
• Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.
• Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
• Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.
• Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.

• Prepare to have a ‘warm room’. If you lose power and thus heat, is there a room in your home that has an alternate heat source adequate for that room? Think through which room would work best, how you can isolate that room and what you would need to be safe and comfortable in that room.

Prepare your car

• Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
  • Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
  • Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.
  • Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.
  • Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes andrepair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
  • Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.
  • Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
  • Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.
  • Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
  • Thermostat - ensure it works properly.
  • Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
• Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
• Drive cautiously. No matter how excellent your driving skills are, others around you may not be as attentive or as skilled. Drive defensively, stay off the cell phone and pay attention!
• Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes:
  • a shovel
  • windshield scraper and small broom
  • flashlight
  • battery powered radio
  • extra batteries
  • water
  • snack food
  • matches
  • extra hats, socks and mittens
  • First aid kit with pocket knife
  • Necessary medications
  • blanket(s)
  • tow chain or rope
  • road salt and sand
  • booster cables
  • emergency flares
  • fluorescent distress flag

Dress for the Weather (You might consider storing a spare hat & mittens in each child’s school backpack)

• Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
• Wear a hat.  The majority of heat loss occurs through your head!
  
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

Listen Up!

• Pay attention to weather alerts, local news and consider signing up for any of the ‘instant’ alert systems your local jurisdiction offers.

• Heed warnings about staying home, avoiding certain roads, etc.

Stay Well

• Avoid sick people. Winter is also flu season, cold season and increased infection season.
• Wash your hands. Washing hands is the number one way to prevent the spread of illness. Wash your hands diligently before you eat, after using anything in a bathroom, when you get home and before, during and after preparing food.
• Stay hydrated. Though you may not feel as thirsty during cold weather months, your body may actually require more fluid than other times. Drink plenty of water every day!
• Eat well. Eat a variety of foods that are safely prepared!
• Maintain an exercise schedule. Climb the stairs at work, do vigorous house cleaning, visit an indoor pool–whatever you do, keep moving.
• Be cautious. Be very careful walking on slippery surfaces. Ice is incredibly hard and will break your body if you aren’t careful. If you must walk on the ice, consider investing in bands that you can attach to your shoes that aid in traction.
• Clear your sidewalks and porches. As soon as possible after a storm, clear your driveway, sidewalk and porch. If you are not healthy enough to do this safely, hire someone to do it for you.

Take just a little bit of time to prepare and you’ll find yourself laughing in the face of that bad old Jack Frost!

Most of us do not want to live in a museum-like home where everything is perfectly on display all of the time. We have families, demands, stresses and things we all love to do instead of constantly cleaning, straightening and organizing. We want to live in our homes! That is how it should be. However, there is a level of organization in your home that is necessary if you want to succeed at overcoming every level of the unexpected from the ‘speed bumps’ to the ‘Mount Everests’ of life. We all have them and by maintaining a home that fits the scriptural admonition “organize yourselves, prepare every needful thing,” we will find ourselves if not sailing past those challenges, at least not compounding them.

Give yourself the following quiz and see if there aren’t areas that you could improve on:

1. Can everyone in your home locate their shoes, basic clothing, coats, hats and     gloves within 60 seconds?

2. Does everyone except for the youngest children know where the 72 hour kits are?

3. Can you quickly locate important documents, phone numbers, financial information and your “What If” notebook?

4. Can you traverse your house in the dark without tripping over toys, shoes and assorted ‘stuff’ left in pathways?

5. Are your fire and carbon monoxide detectors working? Do you replace batteries when daylight savings time begins and ends? General Conference is also a good weekend to do this.

6. Can those with licenses old locate a spare set of keys for every car you own?

7. Can everyone above 5 locate a healthy snack or meal without cooking? Do you keep quick to prepare meals on hand?

8. Do you replace staples like milk, bread and eggs before you run out?

9. Do you know who your home teachers are? Your visiting teachers?

10. Are medications and other potentially hazardous items out of the reach of children?

11. Do you refill your prescriptions before they run out?

12. Do you have regular check ups? Do your children?

13. Do you have emergency numbers including poison control posted?

14. Do you maintain a first aid kid and basic over the counter remedies?

15. Do you keep the laundry caught up enough that everyone has at least 3 clean changes of clothing?

16. Do you perform regular maintenance on your home and car?

17. Are your stairways free from clutter?

18. Do you maintain supplies of paper goods, toilet paper, sanitary needs, diapers and other daily necessities?

There is much more that could be covered. The list is probably endless, but the goal is the same: Be Prepared!

Christmas is over and the New Year begins in just a few days. It is that time of year when our hearts and minds turn to setting ‘resolutions’ which we often forget by Valentine’s Day! Let this year be the exception and set not a single resolution, but rather set some goals for yourself and your family. Set goals that will improve your standard of living, your health and help you be better prepared for what looks like a bumpy financial ride for all of us!

Before setting a single goal, it is important to know where you are right now. Think of setting goals as the same process you would use when utilizing a GPS system. First, you have to know where you are in order to get directions to where you want to go. Today, let’s focus on financial well being and your ability to weather financial storms ahead.

Your starting point must include your current income, which should be easy to figure out. If you don’t know your gross and net take home pay, ask your employer to provide a year-to-date summary for you. Look at that summary and see what you currently have taken out of your paycheck. Are your IRS deductions reasonable? Did you pay a great deal of income tax last year when you filed your return or did you receive a larger than necessary refund? Although lots of folks LOVE getting those refunds, they are actually interest-free loans that you have granted Uncle Sam. Be realistic and consult a tax expert if you have questions.

Next look to see if you are taking advantage of the benefits provided by your employer without being over-insured or paying for benefits that you aren’t using. Do you take advantage of 401K contributions matched by your employer? What about a pre-tax health savings account–which is only worthwhile if you actually use the full amount every year! And don’t forget pre-tax childcare expense accounts.

Now you know how much you make. Do you know how much you spend? Do you know how much you owe others? Take a cold hard look at your spending habits by pulling out (or accessing online) your previous bank statements. Who is getting the bulk of your money? Is there a fair amount of cash unaccounted for?

If you haven’t already done so, write down every single mandatory monthly payment that you must make. Don’t forget mortgage, insurance, student loans, debt in any form, utilities, TV, phone, internet, tuition, cars, etc. This first category should include only those expenses that are set each month.

The second category will be flexible expenses such as savings, clothing, food, gas, donations, travel, entertainment or gifts. If you don’t know how much you spend on these items, it is likely that you are using cash. That isn’t bad, but it can be difficult to track what you spend. For the next few weeks, write down anything you pay cash for and calculate that into this category. Be brutally honest or the exercise will be pointless and you will not know where you are beginning from!

Add up these two categories and see if you are running a deficit. If you aren’t, you should be saving every month and never having to worry about when the next payday is. But, if you have loans that you must repay or are carrying a balance on any credit card, you are still experiencing deficit spending–just keep that in mind as we proceed to decide where we are right now!

You should have a fairly clear idea at this point if you are living within your means, way above your means or (the best of all possibilities) BELOW your means and saving the difference.

For those of you living below your means–good on you! You know what you make, what you spend and are saving your hard-earned money. You now only need to decide if you are taking advantage of all possible tax benefits, investing your money wisely and where you want to be in the future. Are you on track for goals one year, five years, ten years and twenty years in the future? Are you utilizing your common sense and self-discipline to be prepared in other areas of your life? Are you enjoying life–are there things you would like to do or to acquire? Do you have a plan to accomplish those wishes (you probably do, but it never hurts to check)? Do you know what you could cut from your budget immediately if need be? Do you know exactly how much money you have to have on a monthly basis? Set your goals based on the answers to those questions, and keep reading just in case you can learn something new. Or post your suggestions to everyone else!

If you are living just within your means, go through the following exercise with those living above their means. You are failing to get ahead and truly prepare yourselves and your family. Should you hit a ’speed bump,’ your security will be threatened. Now is the time to re-appraise, cut back and save, save, save, save. Acquire no new debt, pay off any that you have as quickly as you can and strengthen your overall level of self-reliance.

Those of you in a serious deficit spending lifestyle need to stop–RIGHT NOW!!! If you are consistently spending more money than you make, it is time to swallow a giant dose of self-discipline and take off those rose-colored glasses. Put your credit cards away, analyze the living daylights out of that budget and start cutting TODAY!! Not tomorrow, not after the holidays are over, not after that big family reunion, not after your teeth are whitened, etc, etc, but NOW! Take a cold, hard, self-reproaching look at those expenses you have written down and face the facts head on:

Do you have cable TV? Cancel it today.

High speed internet? Cancel it today.

Eating out (and that includes stopping for a soda or a candy bar out of the vending maching)? Stop today.

Giving generous gifts? Stop today. Make something simple or just send the person a well thought out and meaningful letter.

Buying new clothes? Stop today. Use what you have, shop clearance racks, garage sales, thrift stores and freecycle.org for items you really have to have.

Having manicures, pedicures, massages, spa visits? Stop today.

Insisting on designer labels? Get real!!

Eating prepared, over-priced and nutrionally challenged foods? Learn to cook! It isn’t hard, really it isn’t!

Renting movies or paying for Netflix? Stop it…the library offers a wide variety of DVD’s for free.

Paying for a zillion and one activities for your children? Stop and send them outside to run around. Take them to a free playground or one of the many free museums around you. Give them some paper and crayons or even better scissors and glue! Read a book, play a game or just talk to each other.

Going to the movies? Please, wait for the DVD at the library.

Buying books? Again, the library and that goes for magazines as well.

Driving around burning up gas? Consolidate necessary errands (first you have to learn what is really necessary & needful) and save gas.

Need something or have something you don’t need? Try freecycle.org or craigslist. You might be surprised what you can give away or get for free.

Bartering is a good thing, too.Can you exchange mending, child tending or gardening for Junior’s piano lessons? Save your cash and exchange your skills.

Eating fancy meals, even at home? Learn to cook and enjoy staple, inexpensive foods high in nutrition and low in fat.

What about prepared snack foods? String cheese, chips, cookies, candy–all high in calories and low in nutrition. Pop some popcorn or make a batch of nutritious cookies from your food storage. Cut up a chunk of cheese. Stick snack foods in ziploc bags before you leave the house so that you won’t be tempted.

Is your home over-heated? Turn that thermostat to a reasonable level. Turn it down even further at night and put a sweater on in the daytime! Close the curtains, plug up drafts and wear warmer clothes.

Utilities sky-rocketing? Turn off lights, electric appliances and other energy-sucking items when not being used.

Batteries eaten up by gadgets? Either use re-chargables and/or cut down on the gadgets.

Cell phone bills silly? Ask yourself–do you really need one? Is Junior texting everyone on the planet? Does Junior even need a cell phone? Are you using up or paying for too many minutes?Will your employer subsidize your cell phone?

Shopping for fun? Try going for a walk, reading a book from the library or visiting a friend. Shopping = spending = more debt = more stress = no fun at all.

You get the idea, don’t you? Slash all discretionary spending and pare down even ‘necessary items’ to their barest levels. Pay off that debt NOW! Keep telling yourself that nothing tastes as good, looks as good or feels as good as being out from under the load of debt and uncertainty.  For anyone living below their means or just at their means, this should be your first goal of the year–control spending, cut anything unnecessary, pay off debt and save something! Set weekly, monthly, quarterly and yearly goals. Keep close record of how you are doing and pat yourself on the back as you accomplish each goal. You’ll like yourself and each new day much more when you are financially free.

For everyone else, you might want to do the same analysis of your spending to be certain you know where you are spending your money. Analyze exactly what you would have to have to live if your income was slashed. Also, set goals for those things you want to do with your money this year. Write those goals down and divide them as explained above.

We have all heard and should all have internalized that we are collectively facing an economic upheaval. No matter what your income, your profession or your situation, we are all likely to be affected by what promises to be a rocky ride. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare!