Preparing for an emergency can alleviate stress during an evacuation.

When disaster strikes, you may not have the time or focus to gather everything you need. Taking the time to prepare ahead of an emergency, such as a natural disaster evacuation, will pay off in the long run.

Many people plan for significant life events, yet a surprising number are unprepared for unexpected evacuations. A study from June 2020 revealed that 85% of individuals lack a clear evacuation strategy.

“After a disaster, you’re confronted with challenges you never expected,” explains a local agency owner. “Having everything organized in advance allows you to concentrate on unforeseen issues.”

A leading financial analyst concurs: “In sudden evacuations, every moment counts, and it’s easy to forget key items. Being prepared eliminates one more worry during an already overwhelming time.”

Essential Items to Collect

For the documents listed below, keep either originals or copies in a sealable plastic bag to protect from damage. Copies are often sufficient if originals are stored securely, like in a safety deposit box. Never leave originals at home if it’s at risk of disaster.

  • Your certified birth certificate
  • Driver’s license, social security card, passport, or ID
  • Health insurance cards, policies, and medical records
  • Auto insurance cards and policy details
  • Homeowners insurance policy declarations
  • Property deeds
  • Vehicle titles
  • Important legal documents including wills, support orders, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives—essential for dependents.
  • Marriage certificate or divorce decree
  • Bank account statements and financial records
  • A video or photos documenting your home’s contents

Choosing What to Pack

While packing, consider which items would be most difficult to replace if lost. The documents listed can typically be replaced, but doing so can be time-consuming after a disaster. Your birth certificate and social security card are crucial, as they’re often needed to obtain other forms of identification, including passports and vehicle titles.

Digital backups of many documents are acceptable. For instance, you can save pictures or videos of your home in Google Drive for easy access. Similarly, digital copies of tax records are helpful, although you might not need them immediately. “Having scanned files saved on a portable drive or in the cloud is a good backup—but you may not access them right away,” they warn.

Regularly update your ‘grab and go’ file with the latest documents. This ensures you’re prepared any time of the year. For storage, a waterproof, fireproof safe is advisable. “Planning ahead can help minimize chaos during an emergency,” the agency owner emphasizes.

When Evacuation Becomes Necessary

If evacuation is required, you’ll eventually need to return home. Often, you must prove residency to regain access, making your driver’s license and homeowner’s insurance details essential for a quick return. Having your insurance policy number handy facilitates prompt communication with your agent for claims.

If you discover damage to your property, reach out to your insurance agent as soon as possible. Companies often prepare for potential emergencies by increasing claims staff and deploying agents to assist. They can issue checks quickly to help cover necessities like clothing, toiletries, and accommodation.

“The sooner you contact us, the faster we can assist with your needs,” they advise.