Protect Your Records And Take Them With You
Release Date: August 4, 2006
Release Number: 1606-235
» More Information on Texas Hurricane Rita
AUSTIN, Texas -- When the hurricanes struck last year, many evacuees lost valuable information needed to re-establish their lives in another place.
Well in advance of hurricane season, make a record of your possessions to help you claim reimbursement in case of loss or damage. Additionally, homeowners and renters should store important documents and vital records in a safe deposit box or other secure, flood-safe location. Include photographs or video of the interior and exterior of your home, cars, boats and recreational vehicles.
Have photos of durable medical equipment and make a record of the make and model numbers for each item. Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or other items that may be difficult to evaluate. Make copies of receipts and canceled checks showing the cost for valuable items.
Vital family records and other important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates; Social Security cards; passports; military discharge papers; wills; deeds; and financial, insurance, and immunization records should be kept in a safe deposit box or other safe location. Make copies of these documents for your disaster supply kit, too.
It is a good idea to have photocopies of the front and back of your driver's license and medical and credit cards, and a copy of a recent utility bill if you need to show proof of residence. Have the name of your insurance companies and policy numbers, and checking account and bank routing numbers. Place these documents in a watertight bag or container.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 09-Aug-2006 12:31:13