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Hey there, fabulous midlife women! Life’s full of unexpected twists and turns, right? From important documents to essential contacts, it’s time to take control and prepare for anything that comes your way. In this blog post, we’re diving into creating your very own emergency binder. Because whether it’s a natural disaster or just those everyday surprises, being prepared is the name of the game. Let’s get organized and give ourselves some much-needed peace of mind!
I never imagined that I would ever have to evacuate…..but there was a day a few years ago when I watched a field fire move closer and closer to our home. I set the sprinklers on our propane tank, gathered up my boys (my husband and daughters were out of town) and our 72 hour kits and we were ready to leave when the evacuation call came.
It is a weird feeling to drive away from your home not knowing if you will be coming back to it. Thankfully, in our case, we were able to return to our home that evening with only minor damage done. Thankfully, due to the work of the firefighters, many homes and structures were saved that day.
One of the things I was sure to grab as we were leaving the house was my emergency binder. It keeps all my important documents in one place that is easy to grab on my way out the door.
Note: If you already have a system in place such as a portable fire proof box….don’t create a binder just because I have one. Do what works best for your situation.
Emergency Binder: Cards
Start by making copies of important cards such as
- Driver’s license
- Health insurance cards (front and back)
- Credit cards (front and back)
- Social Security cards
- AAA membership card
- Any other cards from work, school, or associations
Emergency Binder: Documents
Then gather other important documents…if you don’t have them….now is a good time to track them down!
- Birth certificates
- Immunization records
- Passports
- Insurance policies
- Bank account numbers
- Vehicle titles
- Property deeds
- Trusts and Wills
If you have pets don’t forget about their immunization records as well.
Emergency Binder: Contacts
Gather the phone numbers of family and friends.
Then write down other important numbers such as doctors, work, school, neighbors, church leaders, and organizations you belong to.
How to Organize Your Emergency Binder
I purchased a red binder (I thought that seemed like a good color for an emergency binder!) and sheet protectors to put my copies in.
Obviously some of these cards, documents, phone numbers, etc. will change from time to time. Set up a yearly time on your calendar to review the information in your emergency binder and keep everything up to date.
So, there you have it, amazing midlife women! Your emergency binder is your secret weapon, your peace of mind in a folder, and your ticket to being prepared for whatever life throws your way. Remember, it’s not about worrying, but about empowering yourself to handle any situation with grace and confidence.
You’ve got this! Now, go put that emergency binder in a safe place, share your newfound wisdom with your friends, and keep living your fabulous life with one less worry on your plate. Here’s to being prepared and embracing the journey ahead!
Make it Happen!
- Gather the things you need to make your binder. I know it will take a little time…..and you may never need it. But what if you will?
- Sign up for my “Use It Newsletter” and get great tips on how to create some semblance of order in your life! Plus get a link to my printables page where you can access the 20 page printable for the Emergency Documents Binder.
Other Related Links
This post will give you more information on creating an emergency meal plan.