If a natural disaster or other emergency requires you to evacuate your home quickly, having access to important documents could be crucial to starting the recovery process. Consider keeping paper copies of documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe or in a safe deposit box at your bank. Store digital versions on a secure close-based platform or on a password-protected external drive in a “go-bag” that’s easily accessible.

FEMA.gov suggests including the following:

Identification:  This will help you reunite with your family, if needed, and allow you to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Include a photo ID for each family member, and copies of birth certificates, social security cards, marriage certificates, child custody papers, military ID cards, and pet ID tags.

Medical Information:  In case anyone needs medical care, make sure to include your family member’ health insurance cards, immunization records, and a list of prescriptions, allergies and medical equipment.

Financial and Legal Documents:  Having copies of these documents will help you re-establish financial accounts and maintain your credit. Some documents to include are insurance policies, proof of mortgage payments, sources of income, tax statements, and wills.

Important Contacts:  Include contact information for insurance agents, financial advisers, physicians and specialists, lawyers, banking institutions, employers, schools, and household service providers.

Also consider preparing a go-bag with cash in small bills, blankets, flashlights, a reusable water filter, first aid supplies, and extra batteries or chargers. Make a list of valuable items to take with you if you have more than 15 minutes to evacuate your home.

To download a complete list of personal and financial documents you may need in case of an emergency, go to Ready.gov/financialpreparedness.