Last week I mentioned how nice it would be if readers shared some positive things that have happened to them as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
One reader said that a neighbor had dropped off a bag of candies just to be friendly.
This particular reader provided much more to include the discovery of Zoom. He and his wife found out it’s quite simple and have enjoyed family gatherings using the technology.
Their Parish church community set up a caring call phone list to keep in touch and enjoy many positive conversations.
There’s always the money saved from not travelling to the city. They found that they are shopping at home a lot more.
The pandemic has allowed them to work through their food supply at home. Many of us haven’t seen the bottom of our chest freezer or the back of a shelf for a long time.
Fuel savings and the general peace and quiet were also mentioned as positive things.
Another reader wrote- Three Hills is a wonderful caring community... we have friends that drop baking off on our clothes line, they shop if we are unable to p/u small items, add to their grocery list, bring Easter treats, all Clorox wiped, and the grocery store bakery has made the place smell so normal along with their dedicated staff who work there, as well Seniors Outreach is always a phone call away for our seniors at large.
Another positive this weekend is Mother’s Day. Oh sure, you can’t take Mom to her favorite restaurant for brunch or supper but since you’re not going away this weekend how about spoiling Mom with lots of love. A text might not do it. And let’s face it, hearts and wink stickers only go so far. And that’s assuming that your mother is tech-savy with all the required devices and the knowledge to use them. Technology is great when everyone is on the same page. Otherwise, it can be a pain in the neck. I used neck not to offend anyone.
Hey, how about doing a little more of that local shopping and buy some plants for Mom. You could, even plant them, in her garden for her. That’s if your mom lives close by.
You could send Mom gift cards or have a favorite meal delivered to her from her favorite restaurant. I’m starving just mentioning it.
I’m sure your imagination will come up with the perfect gesture or the perfect gift despite the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, this time each year we recognize Emergency Preparedness Week. It always takes place each year during the first full week of May. This year’s dates are May 3 to 9, 2020.
To comply with public health orders, Emergency Preparedness Week events or activities have been cancelled. Our usual fire hall exhibits, barbecue and handouts might possibly be tied in with Fire Prevention Week in the fall.
At present all Albertans are under a Provincial State of Health Emergency. Most of us were not prepared for this COVID-19 pandemic. It seems that many felt as though hoarding toilet paper was going to solve everything. You know, wipe away all of our problems. Well, it just created even more.
Building a 72 hour emergency kit is something we should all do. It should include granola or energy barns, dried fruit or trail mix. You should have a 72 hour supply of water or electrolytes. That’s based on four liters, per person, per day. Have an adequate supply of any prescription drugs, such as heart medication, insulin for diabetics and inhalers for people with asthma.
You should have over-the-counter medication such as pain relievers, cold meds, digestive aids and anti-nausea meds. Make sure you have essential medical equipment with backup power.
Keep a copy of all personal documents in a protective, sealable bag. Include identification, birth certificates, social insurance numbers, critical medical records and prescriptions.
A first aid kit should contain gauze, bandages, tape and antibacterial ointment as well as antiseptic wipes and protective gloves.
Under sanitation you should have hand sanitizer and wipes (most of us got caught on this one), soaps and household cleaners, personal and feminine hygiene products, trash bags, tissues, toilet paper (don’t hoard) and paper towels.
You should also have enough emergency cash to cover up to 72 hours of incidental expenses, if possible. Have a multi-tool on hand. Books, portable toys and games, electronics with a vehicle charger and extra blankets should be on hand.
You should also have a battery-powered or crank radio and flashlight, candles and matches or a lighter.
Over the years we have dealt with tornadoes, fire, train derailments, flash floods, major blizzards and now the COVID-19 pandemic.
Were you prepared for any of these devastating events? I know I wasn’t. I’ll be busy building my kit.
That’s Life.
