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Despite the red flags flapping for the economy, many Americans say they're not financially prepared for the next recession. Two in 5 people say they're not ready for an economic downturn in the next year, according to a new Bankrate poll. (Some 2,600 people were interviewed at the end of September.) "I don't think there's a perfect amalgamation, but you can insulate yourself to an extent," said Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate.com. Here are some of the steps people said they're taking to make the next recession less painful.

Ramping up savings

A third of respondents in the Bankrate survey said they were putting away more money for an emergency and retirement. During the Great Recession, some 7 million Americans were out of a job for more than six months, McBride said. Ideally, your emergency savings would cover you during a period of unemployment and not force you to go into debt. "Building up extra savings is a great protective measure because it can help bridge the gap if your income drops," said certified financial planner Jon Beyrer, director of wealth management at Blankinship & Foster in Solana Beach, California.

Divide your spending into "essential" and "discretionary" categories to start thinking about where you can cut back and save more, Beyrer said. "It may not be fun, but if it's only temporary it's more doable," he said. A period of unemployment can also result in you missing out on the ability to contribute to your 401(k) plan, and potentially get an employee match. Saving more now can help. "If you're closing in on retirement, this is particularly beneficial," McBride said.

Paying down debt

Another third of people Bankrate surveyed said they were paying down debt in preparation of a recession. Not having a credit card bill will give you more breathing room if times get tight, McBride said. "It also frees up borrowing capacity, should you need it later on," he said. Beyrer recommends listing all of your debts, their balances, payments and interest rates. Focus on paying off the debts with the highest interest rates. "Of course, not adding to debt is very important, too," he said.

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