Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

Do you know what documents you should have on hand in the event of a family emergency or natural disaster?

It’s a good idea to set up an emergency binder, which will streamline the process and give you peace of mind during a crisis. Of course, many of these documents are accessible through various providers and agencies, but it always helps to have your own to avoid unnecessary issues or delays.

Here are a few must-haves:
• Copies of vital records like birth certificates, drivers’ licenses, Social Security cards, passports, and child custody papers
• Insurance documents such as homeowners, renters, auto, life & health insurance policies
• Any property records including mortgages, rental agreements, vehicle titles and registrations
• Personal documents like contracts, trusts, wills, funeral instructions, etc.
• Pet records and associated documents
• A family emergency plan with contact information and meeting places. You can access our Emergency Contact Guide here.
• Items such as account passwords and computer information shouldn’t be carried in a binder.
Those items should be secured in a lock box or safety deposit box.

• It may also be a good idea to include a recent photograph of every family member and pet

There is no way to predict when a disaster or emergency will happen, but it never hurts to be prepared. Of course, this binder should be placed somewhere secure and safe, but also easily accessible in case of emergency. You may consider keeping a binder of important information at a trusted nearby relative or friend’s home.

If a disaster or emergency does occur and you are a FACT member, log-in to see if you qualify under one of our aid benefits. If you are not yet a FACT member, enroll today and protect yourself and start saving!