Tips For Securing Your Documents

Important documents and information are best stored in a safe place so they are available if anything happens to the original. Keep a second copy of all original documents in a safe place outside of your home, such as a safety deposit box. Types of documents and information include:

Family & Medical

  • Telephone contacts and email addresses;
  • A recent picture of each family member;
  • Family member’s emergency contact information;
  • Local emergency / assistance contact information;
  • Essential records: birth, marriage, and death certificates;
  • Health cards and / or proof of insurance;
  • Immunization records – list of known medical conditions;
  • Family doctor / pharmacy contact information;
  • List of medications / personal needs (eye glasses, prescription medication);
  • Legal guardian contact information;
  • Pet information (vaccination records, vet contact information);
  • An agreed to out of town / province family ‘check in’ number in case you get separated.

Legal & Financial

  • Cash (small bills as well as coins);
  • Passport and social insurance cards;
  • Wills, power of attorney insurance policies, contracts, deeds, and investment records;
  • Bank account numbers and cheque books;
  • Credit card account numbers;
  • List of financial and investment relations contact numbers;
  • Drivers / operators licences, vehicle registrations;
  • Proof of occupation / income (e.g., pay stub);
  • List of debt obligations (account numbers and due dates).

Other Household & Miscellaneous

  • Up-to-date inventory of home contents and valuables;
  • Spare keys (home, vehicle, safety deposit box, etc);
  • Local evacuation routes and evacuation centre contact information;
  • Digital and print copies of family photos.