Natural catastrophes can happen in an instant. Families and individuals would prepare in advance by having an emergency go-to-bag ready and developing plans to follow before, during and after an event. The Division of Insurance encourages all Colorado residents to be prepared in case of an emergency. Preparation should include having a “to-go bag” for essentials. Some essentials to consider:
Cash: If the power goes out credit cards won’t work so consider keeping some cash on hand.
- But make sure to keep receipts for everything. It will help in making an insurance claim later.
Medication: Pharmacies may be closed and hospitals may be overwhelmed. Consider keeping a backup supply of medications like blood pressure medicine and insulin.
- Also keeping your health insurance information accessible, with your insurance card or cell phone app, can help get prescriptions filled if they are already on record.
Battery Powered Radio: If electricity is out and cell towers are down, this is your only way to know what’s happening.
- Consider keeping a battery backup for your cell phone, charged and with the necessary cords, as a means of getting information and staying in touch.
Insurance Information: Keep a record of your insurance company, agent, policy numbers and phone numbers on your cell phone or download your insurance company’s app. This can help you get started on recovery quickly.
List of Shelters: In this time of social distancing, not all shelters are open. Or, you may need to travel further than you would normally to find shelter. Consider making a list of possible shelters and, if you have a pet, make sure they are pet friendly.
- Local media and your county’s emergency services department can help identify shelter options.
Change of Clothes: If you are forced to be away from home for a few days you will need a change of clothes for each family member.
- Don’t forget a kid’s comfort toy, or collars and leashes for your pets.
A Note About Important Documents - Social Security cards, passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses and more could be lost in a fire or flood. While you usually wouldn't store these important documents with your to-go bag, you should consider storing them electronically, or if you can't do that, securing them in a fireproof and waterproof container.