We’ve all heard the saying ‘hope for the best, prepare for the worst” when it comes to emergency preparedness. This preparation should include storing all important documents in a place that’s both safe and easily accessible in the event of an emergency. One great idea is to use a binder to keep all of your documents organized.
WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN AN EMERGENCY BINDER?
Emergency contacts & numbers
∙ Family
∙ Friends
∙ Doctors
∙ Work Contacts
∙ School Contacts
∙ Utilities
∙ Non-Emergency Number
Copies of Important Documents
- Driver’s Licenses/State IDs
- Passports
- Social Security Cards
- Birth Certificates
- Adoption Records
- Marriage License
- Military Records
- Church Records
- Will/Trust/Power of Attorney
- Insurance Cards
- Deeds & Titles
- Copy of Tax Returns
- List of Bank Accounts
- Credit Card Statements/Information
- Stocks & Bonds
- Certificates of Deposit
- Password Information for Accounts
- List of Prescriptions
- List of Allergies
- Immunization Records
- Vital Information for each Family Member
- Medical Release Form
- Cash
- Family Photos
Organize your binder however makes the most sense to you. Dividers to keep all of the information separate are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased from virtually anywhere. This will ensure that you are able to find exactly what you're looking for, even in an emergency situation.
Trusted family members or friends should know where this information is stored in the event that something happens while you are away from home or not able to access it. Any kids in the house should also know where it is located and it should be a part of your family evacuation plan.
