CONTRIBUTED Prepare in a Year Securing important papers

Whatcom County officials urge residents to prepare essential documents to facilitate disaster recovery. The latest guidance from the Prepare in a Year initiative focuses on critical items such as identification, insurance proofs, and medical information. Residents can store digital copies on their phones, along with photographs of their homes, to assist with insurance claims. Amy Cloud, Public Information Officer for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, emphasizes the simplicity of this preparation step. Evacuation readiness may include bringing originals and keeping cherished items in a secure bag.

Storing paper copies with trusted friends or at banks adds an extra layer of safety. This proactive strategy aims to ease the stress of recovery following natural disasters. Ensuring that families have access to important documents can significantly impact their recovery experience.