During the past 12 months, violent tornadoes tore through Randolph County and wreaked havoc in our Southeast Indiana and Southwest Ohio communities. We have watched hurricanes plow through portions of Florida which rippled to catastrophic flooding and destruction in western North Carolina and the Gatlinburg areas. Now, unfathomable annihilation of Los Angeles neighborhoods after the unmanageable fires due to the swift Santa Ana winds.
No matter where you live, you are not immune from uncontrollable events nor Mother Nature’s wrath. Regardless of the circumstances out West, down South or to a neighboring county -- households should be prepared when it comes to being able to prove who you are and what you own.
When disaster strikes, your immediate concern will be your safety and the safety of those you care about. Once the immediate danger passes, however, having your financial and medical records and important contact information will be crucial to help you start the recovery process quickly. Taking time now to safeguard these critical documents will give you peace of mind, ensure you have access to essential medical and prescription information, and help you avoid additional stress during the difficult days following a disaster.
The list below contains important information that everyone should take the time to photograph on a phone or scan as a backup in the event of a catastrophe. If you are unable to do that, having backup copies in a bank lock box or in a waterproof, fireproof safe are other alternatives.
- Birth certificates/Adoption papers/Social Security cards; Driver’s license/Passport/Military I.D.
- Eye glass/contact prescriptions; Health insurance documents/VA records
- Medical cards and history records; Titles/Deeds/Legal documents/Wills
- Home insurance documents; Car registration/insurance documents
- Employment records; Marriage License
- Photos/video of house contents; Vet records needed for boarding
Don’t forget at least one statement from all financial accounts (banks and retirement accounts) that list account number, phone number and address.
We have lock boxes in Bath and West College Corner. If you are interested, please stop by or call us.