Page 32 - Womanition_Alberta_North_2020

LBe Prepared
ike the Girl Guides, let’s be prepared for the next pandemic
If there is one simple lesson we’ve all learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s this: be prepared.
The timeless Girl Guide motto means being ready to cope with anything that might come your way. Back in the spring,
that meant being prepared to stay home for several months while COVID-19 swept across Alberta, Canada and the globe. But how does an individual or family prepare for a pandemic and being stuck at home for an extended period? Much the same
way you prepare for other emergencies like a power outage, flood, ice storm, wildfire or any other natural disaster. It starts by making sure you have a supply of necessary items that will allow your household to run
normally for a few weeks.
Medicines – Along with a well-stocked first aid kit, it is recommended that you have an
adequate supply of all essential prescription drugs along with pain relievers, cough and cold medicines, vitamins and any other health treatments.
In addition, make sure that all vaccinations are kept up to date and don’t postpone regular doctor and dental appointments. That’s a lesson many people learned the hard way during lock down.
Food and staples - Stock up on food, water and household cleaning supplies. Maintaining a well-stocked food pantry will protect you from shortages, at least initially, and will minimize the need to go out shopping. Focus on frozen foods, canned items and other staples that won’t go bad. Don’t forget the batteries, hand sanitizers, tissues and, of course, toilet paper!
Finances – It’s tough and takes discipline, but it is important to have an emergency fund that will cover family expenses for a couple of months. It’s also crucial to minimize debt, particularly high-interest debt such as with credit cards. Having access to a line of credit can likewise be valuable to tide you over until things stabilize.
miCheLLe broAdbent
Agent desJArdins insurAnCe
MICHELLE bROadbEnT InSURanCE agEnCY LTd.
michelle@michellebroadbent.com www.michellebroadbent.com I 780.470.3276
Periodically reviewing to ensure that you have adequate life insurance and that your will and other important financial documents are up to date is important. That includes knowing where your insurance documents are kept and having quick access to important contact information in the event you need to put in a claim.
The good news is that there are strong signs that Canadians are taking the Girl Guide’s “Be prepared” motto to heart. Debt levels are falling, life insurance sales are up and food sales suggest pantries are full to bursting.
But let’s just hope that the lesson doesn’t fade as things return to normal.
Christina Louise Photography