7 Smart Ways to Protect Your Family Before Disaster Strikes
My husband, Carlin, often tells the story of how his family was affected by Hurricane Fran in 1996. Massive trees fell on their home in North Carolina, and they were displaced for a significant time. His memories of that frightening experience have really stuck with me. They’re another reminder of just how quickly life can change and underscore the importance of being prepared.
Emergencies can strike at any time—whether it's a hurricane, flood, or another unexpected event—leaving families in disarray. While we often focus on stocking up supplies and evacuation plans, it’s just as important to make sure your estate planning documents are safe and up to date. Having your legal and financial affairs in order provides peace of mind and ensures your loved ones are cared in the event of an emergency.
Here’s a checklist to help you prepare for an emergency:
1. Keep Your Estate Planning Documents in a Safe, Accessible Location
The most critical step in preparing for an emergency is to make sure your important documents are protected. These should include:
Your Will and/or Trust – These documents outline how your assets should be managed and distributed.
Powers of Attorney – Ensure your financial and healthcare powers of attorney are current and reflect your chosen agents.
Advance Directives – This includes your living will and healthcare proxy, which ensure your medical wishes are honored.
Insurance Policies – Homeowners, flood, life, and health insurance documents should be kept handy.
Important Financial Records – Bank account details, retirement accounts, and property deeds should be secure and accessible.
Store these documents in a waterproof, fireproof safe in your home, or consider keeping copies with a trusted family member or in a secure digital storage system. If evacuation is necessary, have a grab-and-go emergency kit that includes copies of your key documents, along with essentials like IDs and insurance cards.
2. Review and Update Your Estate Plan Regularly
Life changes quickly, and so do your needs. Whether it’s a new home purchase, the birth of a child, or simply the passage of time, it’s crucial to review your estate plan regularly—especially when there’s a looming risk like a natural disaster or other catastrophic event. Double-check that your estate plan is up to date and reflects your current wishes and comply with current law.
3. Back Up Digital Copies of Important Information
In addition to your physical documents, consider digitally scanning your estate plan and financial records. Store them securely in a cloud-based system that can be accessed remotely. This ensures that even if your home is damaged or you are displaced due to a natural disaster, you still have access to your vital documents. Some online services even allow you to share these files with loved ones or your attorney.
4. Communicate Your Plan with Key People
It’s critical that your executor, power of attorney agents, and key family members know where your documents are located and understand your wishes. A disaster is not the time for confusion. Make sure to have a conversation with your trusted individuals about your estate plan, your emergency plans, and how to access any critical information.
5. Create a Comprehensive Emergency Kit
Beyond estate planning documents, having an emergency kit on hand can be a lifesaver. This kit should include:
Non-perishable food and water for at least three days
Flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit
Personal hygiene items and any necessary medications
Extra clothing, blankets, and sturdy shoes
A portable phone charger and copies of your critical documents (in a waterproof bag)
A generator to power essentials like refrigerators, medical devices, and communication tools
Additionally, keep a list of important phone numbers and addresses in your kit, including contact information for your estate planning attorney and key financial institutions.
6. Know Your Evacuation Plan and Communicate It with Family
If you live in an area at high risk for natural disasters, have an evacuation plan in place. Know where you’ll go and how you’ll get there. Share your plan with family members, especially if you have elderly relatives or children to consider. Keep your estate planning attorney's contact information handy in case legal assistance is needed during an evacuation or emergency.
7. Update Your Insurance Coverage
Make sure your homeowner’s insurance and flood insurance are up to date and sufficient for your needs. Natural disasters can cause extensive damage, and having the right coverage will help protect your home and assets. Keep a current inventory of your personal belongings for insurance purposes, and store it with your estate planning documents.
Conclusion
Natural disasters and other emergencies can strike without warning, but being prepared helps protect not just your home and family, but also your financial and legal well-being. By making sure your estate plan is secure and up to date, keeping important documents safe, and planning ahead for emergencies, you can face the storm with greater confidence and peace of mind.
If you need assistance updating your estate plan or securing your documents, we’re here to help you through the process. Schedule a complimentary consultation or call us at (301) 500-0037 to ensure that you and your loved ones are protected today.
This article is a service of Cedar Counsel. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love.