Daily Preparedness

Ah, finally Spring has arrived. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining and you can’t wait to get outside without being bundled in layers of clothing. WAIT! Before you leap into the beauty of the season, take a few hours to inspect your home. Winter, especially ones with severe weather, can cause a multitude of problems inside and outside your home. A few minutes (okay hours) now could save you thousands of dollars and untold heartache later. If you are renting your home, you would be wise to follow this checklist. Though you are not usually responsible for repairs, the resulting damage will impact your life and wallet. Report any discrepancies to your landlord/property manager.

To speed up your inspection, here is a handy dandy checklist of items you should check!

1. Kitchen

• Turn on all of the light switches. Wait an hour and see if any are warm. If they are, have an electrician check them for shorts.
• Change the filters in your refrigerator and sink (if you have one).
• Check appliance cords for signs of wear and tear.
• Clean the inside of your dishwasher. Set the washer for a short cycle. Once it is filled with water, carefully open the dishwasher and add one gallon of white vinegar. Continue with the cycle. When completed, wipe down the interior. Check the gaskets for signs of damage.
• Be certain your drains are running easily. A simple way to refresh the drains and garbage disposal is to pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Add up to a quart of vinegar and stand back. Leave mixture alone for an hour and then flush with hot water.
• Check window trims for signs of leaking or loose caulk.
• Remove and clean the filter on your range hood. Clean the hood thoroughly.
• Check the microwave. Clean it thoroughly. Food particles adhering to the interior may be growing bacteria. When you microwave something new, these particles may fall on your food.
• Run the oven through a self-cleaning phase or clean with an oven cleaner. (Be sure to wear gloves and open a window)
• Check under the sink for signs of leaks. Consider installing inexpensive water leak detectors. (These battery operated devices are available for less than $20 at any home improvement store. They should be placed near any area where you think a leak may occur–under sinks, near hot water heaters, sump pumps, basement doors, etc. They emit a loud, piercing alarm as soon as they detect water.)
• Pull out the stove and clean under it. Grease trapped under a stove can become a fire hazard. Food stuff can attract vermin you don’t want.
• Check the cabinets for signs of insects or other unwanted guests.
• Have a fire extinguisher handy and check the expiration date.

2. Bathrooms

• Check cabinets, tub, shower & toilets for signs of leak & install inexpensive water leak detectors.
• Place a few drops of food coloring in the tank of toilet. Check back in an hour or two. If the water in the bowl is colored, you need to replace the flap valve unit in the tank.
• Test any ground fault circuit breakers that you have.
• Check shower curtain liners for signs of mold or mildew. Replace if needed.
• Check caulk around all surfaces. There should be no breaks, cracks or spots that are showing signs of mold.
• Clean out medicine cabinets and dispose of expired prescription or OTC meds.
• Clean drains as above in kitchen section. Make sure toilet is running well & filling appropriately.

3. Entire House

• Replace batteries in all smoke/fire/carbon monoxide detectors. Test and clean units.
• Replace furnace/air filters. Check duct work for signs of dirt or corrosion. Clean vents.
• Replace light bulbs as needed. Be certain all light bulbs are the appropriate wattage for the fixture.
• Clean dryer lint trap under running water. Check outside exhaust for lint build up. Clean lint trap. Clean under and around dryer. (Lint is highly flammable!)
• Have furnace and a/c unit inspected and serviced. You can do a preliminary inspection by looking for signs of corrosion, scale, funny noises or odd smells. If you suspect a gas leak LEAVE and call for professional help. If there is a serious gas leak, LEAVE and call 911.
• Have chimney cleaned if you used it over the winter. Chimney fires can smolder for hours before erupting.
• Clean out the fireplace. Remove all ash and clean all surfaces.
• Clean your clothes washer as you did your dishwasher. Install water detector alarm.
• Check area around your sump pump for signs of wear or corrosion. Consider installing a back-up battery operated unit. Install water detector alarm.
• Check all light switches as described in kitchen section.
• Check all water supply lines (don’t forget the line to the refrigerator) for signs of wear, corrosion, cracks or leaks. Test the shut off valves to make sure they work (and you know where they are!)
• Check all power cords.
• Check ceilings for signs of water leaks. If you see any, have your roof inspected (See below).
• Check all windows and doors for air leaks. Inspect caulking and weather stripping.
• Protect your valuable appliances, computers, TVs, etc with surge protectors. Consider installing a whole house surge protector.
• Inspect and test your security alarm system.
• Consult your owner’s manual and check your hot water heater. Install water detection alarm!
• Test the batteries in your water detection alarms.
• Check the attic for signs of leaks, birds, rodents, insects or missing/damaged installation.
• Vacuum upholstery and mattresses. Wash mattress and pillow covers as recommended.
• Inspect stair railings. Be certain they are snug and do not flex inappropriately.
• Inspect beds and cribs used by children. Be certain they are safe & secure.
• Inspect any child safety gates that you have installed.
• If you use child safety devices such as outlet plugs, cabinet locks, etc. inspect them.
• As you put away your child’s toys, sleds, winter gear, etc. inspect for loose parts, damage, etc.

4. Outside Grab some binoculars and head out into the fresh air!

• Stand away from the house and using binoculars, inspect your roof for signs of damage. Look for shingles that are missing, curling or bending at odd angles. Look at the roof ridge vent and check for loose portions or signs of wear. Look at the flashing around chimneys, checking for signs of corrosion, cracks, separation or lifting from the roof. Look at the siding under the roof eaves. If you see damage, this may indicate that an ice dam caused damage to the roof and the siding.
• If you see damage to your roof, get estimates from at least three different roofers. Be certain repair estimates are in writing and that the company offers a solid guarantee. Be extremely cautious in attempting any repairs to your own roof.
• Inspect your gutters. Again, use your binoculars and look for separation from the roof line, cracks, clogs, corrosion or bending of the gutter line. If you see damage, get several estimates.
• Use those binoculars again to scan any power lines above or around your house. Report any concerns to the appropriate utility. Be certain that trees are not encroaching on lines. NEVER attempt to work near a power line.
• Clean or have your gutters cleaned. Be certain that run-off positions are causing the water to run away from the foundation of your home. Install extenders if necessary.
• Clear debris, leaves and foliage from your foundation. Plants should encourage water to flow away from your home. Having plants up against the foundation encourages water retention, rodents & insects.
• With your binoculars, inspect all trees around your home. Look for limbs that show signs of breaking, strain or hanging at odd angles. Look for branches or limbs that have broken off but are stuck on lower branches of the tree. Consider hiring a professional to remove any damaged limbs. Again, get multiple estimates.
• If you are storing large amounts of water, this is a good time to drain the barrels, clean them and refill them. Look for signs of corrosion, damage, etc.
• Check your deck! Look for water stains where the deck attaches to the house. Ongoing water damage can weaken the deck and your home. Consult a professional (remember estimates) if you suspect damage of this sort. Look for signs of rot, loose boards, shaky handrails, nails pulling loose and splinters.
• Clean your deck to rid it of moss and mold. Reseal if needed.
• Check your foundation for cracks. If you see any, mark with tape and check again in a few months. If they remain stable, simply fill with an epoxy or foam product. If the cracks increase, consult a structural engineer.
• Check the foundation area for pellet-shaped droppings or shed wings from termites.
• Be certain that the ground around the foundation slopes away at about 1″ per foot. If needed, add compacted soil to increase slope.
• Fill in any low spots where water pools. Near the house, these can lead to foundation leaks. Away from the house, they are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• Remove branches and other debris from your yard.
• Move firewood well away from house.
• Fill in gaps in siding or foundation with expanding foam product.
• Inspect your siding for signs of damage. Repaint as needed.
• Inspect all wood surfaces. Gently probe with a screwdriver. If you feel the wood give way, you may need to replace it. Repaint and caulk as needed.
• Inspect brick work for signs of cracking or chipping away of the brick. If a brick surface is damaged, reseal it with an appropriate product.
• Inspect your driveway and walkways for cracks, fissures or chipped areas. Repair to prevent falls.
• Check outside hose faucets for damage. Be certain they shut off completely and that there are no interior leaks when they are used. Check hoses for rot, cracks, wear, etc.
• Have a qualified technician inspect and service your a/c unit now before it gets hot! There are still tax credits available for upgrading units.

5. Garage and Cars

• Check your garage for oil stains and clean.
• Inspect the ceiling/under side of the roof for signs of leaking.
• Sweep up any spills. Be especially careful to sweep up spills of ice melting chemicals.
• Dispose of old chemicals, cleaning agents, paints, etc per local regulations.
• Thoroughly test your garage door:  Place a 2×4 or other 4″ structure on the floor where the garage door closes. Close the garage door. When the door hits the 4″ structure, it should immediately reverse direction. Next, cover an electric eye as the door is closing. The door should stop immediately and reverse. (You may be able to easily adjust the eye. If you cannot, see below) Next, disengage the electric garage door opener and open the door manually. It should rise and lower easily and evenly. If the door fails any of these tests, have a professional inspect and repair it.
• Inspect the exterior of your garage door for signs of flaking paint, leaks, water damage, etc.
• Wash the inside and outside of your cars. Chemicals and sand used to treat snowy/icy streets are hard on your car’s interior and exterior. Vacuum the carpets thoroughly.
• Check tire pressure, oil, washer fluid, antifreeze, etc.
• Look at the car’s engine. Inspect belts and hoses for signs of cracks, wear or weakness.
• Check the a/c coolant level.

A few hours in these early days of Spring may very well save you hours, dollars and heartache later on. These inspections can be done quickly, easily and spread out over time. Enjoy the beautiful weather and stay safe!

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!

The week before Christmas and all through the land,

Folks are scurrying and feeling rather grand.

Now is the time for the wise to prepare,

So that holidays will occur without a scare!

Okay, so the poetry isn’t great, but just to make certain that your holidays are more merry than scary, remember a few last minute reminders:

SHOPPING:

• Try to go without little ones so you aren’t distracted
• Keep packages out of sight–lock that trunk!
• Be constantly aware of your surroundings
• If you must shop alone and at night, ask for security to walk you to your car, especially in a large and/or dark parking lot
• Carry valuables in your front pockets. Avoid a purse or tote if possible
• Keep your credit cards in sight when completing transactions
• Be aware of anyone looking over your shoulder while you process your transaction
• Don’t process a purchase while clerk is on the phone, especially if speaking in another language and holding your credit card
• Use internet sites that are secure
• If you are gone from home all day, ask trusted neighbor to pick up packages left at your front door.
• Keep your receipts–most merchants have tightened up return policies!
• Have some cash for emergencies and small purchases

TRAVEL

• Have cash for emergencies
• Re-read hints about winter travel
• Plan plenty of time for delays
• Keep your cellphone charged
• Check car condition before travel

HOME

• If going away, use timers on lights and talk radio channel
• Ask trusted neighbor to bring in mail and newspapers
• Don’t put gifts where others can see them through open drapes
• Be sure to practice fire safety, especially with lit candles and flammable decorations
• If having house guests, be certain their medications are up & away from little hands
• Cut up and bag boxes from high priced items when disposing of them or take to recycling center
• Practice safe food handling

Have a safe, blessed, healthy and happy Christmas!

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.

For many people, decorating the Christmas tree is a favorite part of the holiday. The National Safety Council (with a few I added for good measure) offers some safety tips to make sure a mishap doesn’t spoil your holiday season.

Christmas Trees

• A real tree can add to the spirit of Christmas by filling your home with beauty and the scent of pine. But a real tree can also pose a fire hazard. Each year, more than 400 residential fires involve Christmas trees and tragically nearly 40 deaths and 100 injuries result from those fires.
• Try to select a fresh tree by looking for one that is green. The needles of pines and spruces should bend and not break and should be hard to pull off the branches. On fir species, a needle pulled from a fresh tree will snap when bent, much like a fresh carrot. Also, look for a trunk sticky with sap.
• Cut off about two inches of the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the tree does not dry out quickly.
• Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
• If you use an artificial tree, choose one that tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.

Tree lights

• Only use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights only outdoors). Look for the UL label. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets.
• Also, use no more than three light sets on any one extension cord. Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid tripping hazards, but do not run cords under rugs.
• Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.
• Consider placing a fire extinguisher near the tree ‘just in case’.
• Tree ornaments

• Always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places.
• Read labels before you use materials that come in jars, cans and spray cans.
• Never place lighted candles on a tree or near any flammable materials.
• Avoid placing breakable tree ornaments or ones with small, detachable parts on lower branches where small children or pets can reach them.
• Do not hang popcorn chains and candy canes on the tree when small children are present. They may think that other tree ornaments are also edible.
• Be cautious and considerate of your animals, too!
• Gifts
• Do not place tree in front of un-covered window. Keep curtains closed at night so that ‘outside eyes’ cannot spy the loot under your tree
• Be certain that wrapping paper and ribbons are not entangled with extension cords
• On Christmas morning, have several trash receptacles ready for the wrapping paper and ribbons.
• Be cautious about burning wrapping paper in the fire place. Much of it contains components that can spark, ‘explode’ or produce noxious fumes. The better bet is to place it all in the recycling bin.
• Be careful to protect pets from ribbons and paper. The papers can contain toxic substances for the little critters and they can become entangled (even choked) by loose ribbons.
• For re-usable wrapping, consider making or purchasing simple fabric bags that can be re-used year after year.
• Keep all of your receipts not only for returns but to protect yourself against credit card fraud. Carefully scrutinize your January credit card statement.
• Also remember that chocolate and other common Christmas treats are, in general, not good for your pets.

Enjoy a safe, happy, and well-prepared holiday season!

The pumpkins are being carved and right next to the row of Halloween costumes are Christmas ornaments!  Yes, it is that time of the year when budgets, bodies and emotions can all come crashing down from the weight of Holiday-mania!  Preparing  (a recurring theme here) ahead, a bit of planning and a good dose of self-control can yield a holiday season with more happy memories than post-holiday mania.  Try these time, energy, emotion and money saving tips this year:

1. Establish a firm budget for gifts and all of the ‘extras’ that come with the holidays. Think about your previous year’s commitments, activities and expectations as a spring board for remembering everything you will need to buy!  In addition to gifts, remember food, clothing, transportation, postage, events, wrapping paper (unless you were clever enough to get it last year at 90% off)–all of those extras that add up to financial stress.

2. Make a list of everyone you would like to give a gift to. In addition to family members, don’t forget teachers, leaders, visiting teaching, home teachers, coaches, neighbors, children’s friends, co-workers and family members. A ‘standardized’ gift for teachers, etc. is often helpful and avoids last minute confusion. Teachers in particular often appreciate note cards or small consumable gifts. Consider having one or two extra small gifts on hand for hostess gifts or surprise gift giving opportunities.  Were you clever enough to purchase items at after-holiday sales last year???  Do an inventory of what you have on hand before you step one foot in a store! Assign items you find to specific individuals on your list, wrap and label.  Mark them off your list and smile at your savings, cleverness and organizational skills.  You are amazing!

3. Decide how much you would like to spend on each of these gifts. Can you make some of them? Would a nice note suffice? Can you really easily afford the total cost?

4. Check your address books to establish how many Christmas cards you need to send. Are you going to include photos? Don’t forget the cost of stamps. Can you reduce the number by sending e-cards to your tech savvy friends?  Or post the photos on line and give your friends the url–no cost to you!  Don’t forget the dollar store as a resource for inexpensive cards.

5. Stop by the dollar store & check Target’s ‘dollar spot’ for these items before they are gone: ‘disposable’ decorations for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, tape, wrapping paper, Christmas cards, napkins, small gifts for teachers, etc. This is often your cheapest source for these items and they will often sell out quickly.

6. Decide which if any service projects or charity collections you can participate in. You will probably receive multiple requests for canned goods, mittens, scarves or whatever between November 1 and December 31. Decide now what you can afford to give and where your efforts and time are best applied.

7. Look at your calendar now and begin putting in all of the holiday activities available. As a family, decide what you will participate in. Remember to leave time for being together.

8. Decide which holidays you will spend where. With large extended families, it is often the case that you are pulled in a multitude of directions. If your family wants you to bring the new baby home for the holidays and your budget is tight, don’t hesitate to explain this fact of life to your family. Perhaps everyone that wants to cuddle Junior on Christmas Eve would pitch in for airline tickets. Whatever you decide to do, make certain it is what you can handle emotionally, spiritually and financially.

9. Shop early and shop smart. Keep a list of who you are buying for and what you have already purchased. A small spiral notebook works well as does a simple 3×5 card. As you purchase a gift, mark it off your list.  Staying out of the stores close to any holiday will save you time, money and frustration!

10. Wrap everything you can early and store where you can find it. I routinely misplace gifts—it has become nearly a family tradition to hunt for the missing gifts, so try to designate one hiding place or at least make a list of where you put what.  Not all families would be as entertained as mine by ‘Gift Hunt’.

11. Maintain a sense of humor and a sense of perspective.

12. Purchase or make Halloween costumes early. Get your treats for trick or treaters purchased early and then hide them from your family members.

13. Make menus for not only the holiday meals you will be hosting but those you will be attending that require you to bring food. It is amazing how many potluck dinners crop up between Nov. 1 and Jan 1. If you can make some of those dishes ahead of time and freeze them, your life will be less chaotic. Shop for shelf stable ingredients NOW or as they go on sale.  Write out menus and prepare a shopping list now!  Mark off items as you purchase them.  It can be helpful to separate items specifically for a certain meal, bag them up and label them accordingly.

14. While you are freezing things for potlucks, make extra for your family. When things get hectic, you’ll have dinner in the freezer. Disposable pans lighten the clean up time. Keep a list of what you have on hand.

15. Purchase some disposable dishes and flatware to use for hectic days.

16. If you have multiple holiday events to attend, consider what you need for your wardrobe and/or your family’s holiday events.  Shop in your closet first, then branch out to other family members and friends.  Maybe your best friend can loan you that fancy outfit or accessories.  If you have to shop, do so early so that you can bargain shop without pressure.

17. Bake ahead and freeze! Wrap items tightly, label and add to your list of available items.

18. Practice saying no if this is a problem for you. Say no to the mirror.  Say no to yourself!

19. If you have young children, consider turning off regular TV program loaded with commercials that will drive their ‘wish list’ crazy. Substitute videos and DVD’s of their favorite shows. The public libraries are great resources!

20.  In all things, think safety!  Fatigue, busyness, even happy laughter can easily distract us and lead to accidents.  Don’t relax the rules about buckling up, no matter how many friends want to go with you to that holiday concert.  Don’t forget to be certain your smoke detectors are working.  Don’t overload electrical outlets or leave candles burning unattended!  Keep breakable or dangerous ornaments out of reach for young children and pets.  Lock up, secure your belongings, drive carefully and always be aware of your surroundings.  Predators are out there just hoping you’ll be too busy to notice them!

21. Try to always remember the true meaning of Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, any holiday you celebrate between now & January 1st and focus on that meaning.  Enjoy all of the free community events together as a family or with good friends.  Play games together.  Make memories, not headaches.

Preparedness and provident living extend well beyond the edible goodies in your pantry and the water safely stored!  The well-prepared home is one in which a family can shelter for at least two weeks without having to depend on outside support.  Even better, is a home that would allow you to stay in place for months if need by!  This level of preparation is not intended to fulfill some doomsday scenario, but to allow you to weather the storms of life–illness, weather events, unemployment, unexpected expenses, inflation and a wide range of small to large disasters.  A prepared and provident home takes advantage of sale prices to stock up and then uses up their ‘bargains’ until the next sale rolls around.

Hygiene: feminine products, hand sanitizer, baby or other disposable wipes (if you don’t have water, this would be your primary source of hygiene for the whole family), toothpaste, mouthwash (even if you don’t use regularly, it will keep mouth healthy & can disinfect other items), diapers, toilet paper, facial tissue, bleach, dishwashing soap (not dishwasher soap), dishwasher soap, laundry detergent, spray disinfectant, paper towels, garbage bags, basic household cleaners, disposable abrasive pads, ‘comet’ or similar powdered cleanser.

Health: vitamins, pain relievers, thermometer, cold medication, prescription medication, rubbing alcohol, cough drops, anti-diarrhea medication, laxative, a well stocked first aid kit, hydrogen peroxide, disposable latex gloves (if anyone is allergic to latex, order non-latex gloves), N-90 facial masks, antacid, & any other over the counter meds your family uses regularly.

Safety/comfort: candles (the best are those encased in glass container), matches, fire extinguisher, flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio, heat source (firewood, portable heater, etc—NEVER use a BBQ inside and NEVER store an extra propane tank inside your home or garage), smoke detectors that run on batteries, extra warm clothing, fans, sufficient blankets and/or sleeping bags, hats, mittens, rain gear

Tools: basic tool box to include a screwdriver, hammer, nails, pliers, screws, etc, tool to turn off gas line (can only be re-opened by professional), bung wrench if you store food in plastic buckets, plastic sheeting, duct tape, painter’s tape (these items can help seal up windows, etc. to keep home warmer as well as patch holes in the roof & package excess trash), snow shovel, regular shovel, paper, pencils.

Eating: disposable plates, cups, pans, & flatware, paper napkins, aluminum foil, BBQ (only outside), & camp stove.  Don’t forget extra fuel!

Car: keep at least ¼ to ½ tank of gas at all times. Have your car emergency kit packed and updated. And keep your car well maintained!

Pets: Remember to think of your pet needs as well.

Cash:  Every home needs a reasonable amount of cash in small bills (NO larger than $20) stored.  In many natural or man-made disasters, access to checking accounts, debit cards and credit cards is cut off.   All transactions are made with cash, and change is often not available.

Entertainment: Have you considered how you would keep yourself and your children busy if you don’t have electricity or cannot go out to your local ‘amusements’?  Be certain that you have books, games, hobbies and an idea of how to entertain yourself and your family at home.  Practice once in awhile–it’ll be good for your relationships and your wallet.

Information: Do you have a ‘hard copy’ of quick recipes, phone numbers, important addresses, etc?  Be wary of keeping all of your vital information electronically.  Technology is wonderful and we all rely on it, but keep at least a minimum of information in a format that is easy to access regardless of whether you have power or internet access.

Think through the specific needs of you and your family. Adapt these suggestions to meet those needs and then evaluate what you have on hand. Many of these items, such as paper towels, need only be stored in a larger than normal quantity.