As the devastating wildfires in California finally subsided, it occurred to me that all of us need to make sure we are prepared for a disaster if that time should ever come. Following are some suggestions that may be helpful:

1. Make copies of your documents
   Here we’re talking about birth certificates, social security cards, marriage licenses, passports, bank statements, insurance policies, wills, etc. It’s even a good idea, after making the copies, to give them to another family member or friend, just in case yours are destroyed. For the copies that you keep, make sure you put them in a waterproof container. This can be something as simple as a Ziploc bag. And, if people are concerned about losing paper copies or having too many papers floating around the house, try an electronic copy. Save your documents on hard drives, disks, or even in an email. Electronic backup copies will save you in the end.
   
   
2. Get your insurance information in order
   First, if you don’t have homeowner’s insurance or fire or flood insurance, get it now – especially if you live in an area that’s prone to that type of damage. If you are insured, make certain you put that policy in a safe place! This goes back to the first point. And, make sure you know the terms of that insurance policy. For example:  once something happens (for instance devastating wildfires), make your claim right away. Don’t forget to take pictures or video of the damage.
   
   
3. Buy a fireproof safe
   Depending on the size of the safe, it could run you anywhere from $100 to $500
   on average. But, this is certainly worth the investment.
   
   Another important point to make:  Don’t think that you’re safe with putting your valuables in a safe-deposit at a bank or other institution. If a natural disaster like a fire, hurricane or earthquake hits, and destroys the bank, your valuables are no good in a safe-deposit box.
   
   
4. Prepare an emergency kit
   It’s important to gather things like a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, bottled water, food, a blanket, a first-aid kit, etc.—anything that you’ll need. And, pack it now! You won’t have time or be able to think when you’re rushing you and your family to safety. Don’t forget your pets. Do it now to save time later.
   
   
5. Come up with a family plan
   Again, this is something to do right now. Let your family know where the important documents are, or, if you made copies, who has them. Come up with a meeting point in case you get separated. The same things we hear all the time, but so many people aren’t doing them. Make a plan now.