How to Create a Personal Emergency Plan

Get it Together - emergency papers that is. This post is NOT about creating an emergency Grab and Go Binder in case of fire or natural disaster, full of original documents and proofs of ownership. Rather, this is about being prepared for another kind of emergency – if you should become incapacitated due to accident or illness. How would someone else handle your affairs? Think about it a minute. Seriously, what if something happened to you? Who would step in and how would they know where to find your lawyer, pay your bills, access your computer, or find your insurance information?  Even for a short period of time this contact person would need a road map to efficiently navigate your affairs! (click on Read More to continue)

Admittedly, this is not a fun topic and it feels overwhelming as well, but really are you prepared? Do you care enough about your loved ones or friends to put things in order for them? There is never a better time than now to get started. Like any organizing activity, the time and effort spent gathering emergency information will be repaid with the satisfaction of knowing you are in control and calm. So, set aside a few minutes to read these suggestions. Then plan a couple time blocks for finding, copying and organizing your vital information. You will be grateful you did in case an unimaginable emergency strikes.
 
Start small and do easy things first if that’s more palatable. In succeeding years, you can expand your system. As you will see below, I recommend making paper copies, notes, and descriptions. Even though you might keep many digitized records, paper is a tangible format that provides a physical starting point or key to your map. Please consider how you will safeguard this confidential information whether it is hidden/disguised in your home or stored off-site with your contact person.
 
 
QUICK AND EASY FIRST STEPS: PAPER BASED

• Simply write down an overview of your filing system, i.e., the top drawer of the beige file cabinet has all the household files.
• Make copies of cards in your wallet/purse.
• Make copies of your passport and SS card.
• List companies and account numbers for banks, financial institutions, utilities, and insurance policies.
• Describe where your passwords are kept: physical or electronic.
• Make a list of your professional contacts (name, number and address): legal, financial, medical, household, and vehicle.
• List contents and location of a safe deposit box; assign an authorized signatory.

 
 
NEXT STEPS: ELECTRONIC

• Describe accessibility for computer, email and online sites. (Many online sites prohibit anyone but you from using your passwords for access – something to think about and research.)
• Include the pass code for your cell phone or answering machine.
• Describe access to a password list if electronic.

  
FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD: PLANNING DOCUMENTS

• Make a will. Name an executor. Specify who can access your electronic information.
• Consider establishing a trust and funding it.
• Identify beneficiaries for assets.
• Set up advance directives for healthcare and/or a living will.

 
 
COMMUNICATE & MAINTAIN

• Designate an emergency contact person and get approval from them; can be a trusted friend or relative.
• Convey verbal and written instructions.
• Update information annually.
• Use a specialty book or binder or notebook to contain your road map.

 
Your emergency contact person, should they be pressed into service, will appreciate having quick access to the above information. You, too, will benefit by having key information at your fingertips: list of bank cards, accounts and contact information! Get started today even if it’s in a small way.