Protecting sensitive documents before SHTF

When preparing for emergency situations—ranging from natural disasters to societal disruptions—it’s crucial not to overlook the protection of your sensitive documents. These can include personal identification, financial records, legal papers, and more. Here’s a guide on how you can safeguard these vital documents before any unforeseen event, often referred to by preppers as “SHTF” (Shit Hits The Fan), potentially disrupts the normal safety and accessibility of your information.

Identify Your Sensitive Documents

Start by identifying what you’ll need to protect. Some common sensitive documents include:

• Birth certificates
• Passports
• Social Security cards
• Marriage/divorce papers
• Property deeds and mortgage documents
• Insurance policies
• Wills and trusts
• Financial account records
• Medical records
• Tax returns
• Diplomas and professional certifications

Create Digital Copies

In the digital age, having electronic backups of your documents is a smart step. Use a scanner or a smartphone scanning app to create digital copies. Remember to:

1. Scan thoroughly: Use a portable scanner to digitize your documents.
2. Organize digitally: Create properly labelled folders on your computer or a secure cloud service to store your scans.
3. Encrypt and backup: Encrypt sensitive files and keep multiple backups on different media, such as external hard drives, USB flash drives, or secure cloud storage services.

Utilize Safe Storage Solutions

Choosing the right physical storage solutions can make a significant difference in protecting your documents from theft, fire, or water damage.

Fireproof and Waterproof Safes: Invest in a quality safe that offers fire and water protection. The safe should be heavy enough to deter theft or have the option to be bolted to the floor. Make sure the safe is rated for at least one hour of fire protection at high temperatures.

Safe Deposit Box: For additional security, consider renting a safe deposit box at a local bank. However, in a major disaster, accessing a safe deposit box may be difficult, so it’s best not to rely on this as your only method.

Watertight Containers: For a budget-friendly option, store copies of important documents in watertight containers such as ziplock bags or dedicated watertight document bags. These can then be placed inside a less expensive safe or lockable cabinet.

Keep a Comprehensive List

Create a detailed list of where your documents and their copies are stored. Make note of any passwords or combinations needed to access digital files or safes. Keep a copy of this list in a secure location, such as a safe or with a trusted family member. Remember to use a secure method to destroy old documents

Regularly Update Your Documents

Outdated documents can cause unnecessary headaches in an emergency, so make it a habit to review and update your records at least annually or whenever there’s a significant change in your life, like a marriage, the purchase of a property, or a change in insurance coverage.

Plan for Accessibility

In order to maintain quick access to your documents when you need them, consider the following:

• Accessibility: If you choose a safe, place it in a location that’s easily accessible but not obvious to potential burglars. During an emergency, you may need to reach your documents swiftly.
• Memorize Important Numbers: Memorize key numbers like your Social Security number, driver’s license number, and important account numbers. This can be invaluable if you need to reference your identity or financial information and are unable to access your physical or digital copies.
• Evacuation Preparedness: If you must leave your home quickly, ensure that your secure storage solution is portable or create an “emergency grab-and-go” binder with essentials that you can easily take with you.

Inform Trusted Individuals

Ensure members of your household are informed about where documents are stored and how to access them in your absence. Consider giving copies of the location list and access information to a trusted family member or friend outside your immediate living area.

By taking these steps to protect your sensitive documents before SHTF, you’ll help safeguard your personal information and ensure that you have access to critical records when they’re needed most. Remember, preparation is key, and in times of crisis, having your documents in order can bring much-needed peace of mind and practical assistance.