Important Documents- Part 1

 

Week #1—Decide Where to Keep Emergency Info

You probably keep important information in several places. This can be a problem if your home is destroyed by fire or earthquake. Decide to keep all your information together in one safe, easily accessible place.

The best place to keep emergency information is on your smart phone. If the disaster happens while you are away from home, you’ll probably have your phone with you. Use a strong, secure password to protect your personal information.

If you don’t have a smart phone, you can keep it in your car (probably with you during the emergency, but not secure), or fire safe (secure, but not quickly accessible).

Week #2—Decide How to Backup Emergency Info

If your smart phone is stolen or breaks, you’ll need a backup of your information. Copy it to the Internet or another electronic device. Some websites can automatically copy files to all of your devices, but don’t assume this works. Simulate accessing your information while the Internet is down by putting your device in “Airplane Mode”.

If you don’t have a smart phone, make copies of important documents and keep them at work or a relative’s house.

Week #3—Collect Contact Information

Collect the phone numbers and email addresses of your out-of-state contact, family members, friends, work, schools, and childcare. Make a backup copy.

Week #4—Collect Insurance Information

Collect contact information for your home, auto, and life insurance policies. Include policy numbers and claim phone numbers. Make a backup copy.

To provide proof of loss, take photos or videos of your valuables and all the rooms of your house.

Extra Credit—Insurance Coverage Review

Review your insurance coverage with your agent. Because they are not covered by basic policies, consider adding earthquake and flood insurance. For a 4 minute video, click here.