How to Prepare For An Economic Shutdown

Money is said to make the world go around, but for some it's hard to come by these days.

"It's a tough market. My son's 18 and looking for a job because he wants money. He's competition with 40 year old men now for the part time job at Hobby Lobby or somewhere you know," Brian Johnson told News Channel 8.

Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn warns the worst days are ahead in a recent article. He points to the government's $14.2 trillion worth of debt, fearing higher interest rates and inflation.

"Doomsday are realist is the way I term it, as reality," said Financial Planner Stan Rickner. He's the President of Seasons Financial Group, and he reviewed Coburn's op-ed in the Washington Post. He says Tulsans could weather the storm, but only if they're prepared.

Brian Babcock saves to protect his family's financial future.

"I'd love to have an extra 6 to 12 months. We're trying to shoot for that. It's always a goal, but with kids you never know what's going to happen so it's hard to keep that much," he said.

However, Rickner says the amount can vary depending on your profession.

"So if you're in the health or medical field then I'd say you're reserve could be six months."

He recommends as much as 18 months for those in jobs prone to layoffs, like middle management.

There's hope for some who can't afford to save.

"Maybe it's not so much saving as cutting expenses. As we look at what can we do immediately, our ability to get another job. Yes, we could work a second job possibly and create more income that way," suggests Rickner.