BE READY IN A FLASH

CREATE A SURVIVAL FLASH DRIVE

  • Purchase a USB Flash Drive (also called memory sticks or thumb drives due to their small size)

  • Use a permanent marker, sticker, or label to put the word “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) on it

  • Scan your important documents using a scanner, and store the files on the Survival Flash Drive

WHAT TO PUT ON YOUR FLASH DRIVE

All Government Issued IDs, Licenses, Permits, and Certifications for Each Family Member

  • Driver’s License / ID

  • Birth Certificate

  • Social Security Card

  • Passport

  • Marriage Certificate

  • Gun Permit

  • Veteran/Discharge Papers

  • Work Permits / Licenses

  • Immigration Papers

Important Non-Government Documents

  • Medical Records

  • Vaccination Records

  • Health Plan Information

  • Advance Directives

  • Business Records

  • Bank Accounts

  • Credit Card Accounts

  • Insurance (Home/Auto)

  • Real Estate / Mortgage

  • Rental Agreement

  • Contracts

  • Wills

  • Power of Attorney

  • Divorce / Custody Papers

  • Restraining Orders

Other Important Information

  • Current Photos of Each Family Member and Pet

  • Important Family Pictures

  • Emergency Contact List with Addresses /Phone Numbers

KEEP IT UP TO DATE

Remember to keep the information on your Survival Flash Drive current by updating it regularly.

PASSWORD PROTECT / ENCRYPT THE INFORMATION

For an added level of security, you can password-protect the files or encrypt the drive using software like TrueCrypt. Keep in mind that emergency workers would have a hard time opening protected files.

STORE IT IN A SAFE LOCATION

Store your Survival Flash Drive in a small sealed plastic bag to prevent damage from the elements. Attach it to your key chain, put it in your purse, put it in a fireproof + waterproof safe, put it in a drawer at work, or put it in the glove box of your vehicle. Keep a copy wherever you think it will be safe and available in an emergency away from your house (in case of fire or flood).

SPECIAL MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Create a document on your computer that includes all the details medical personnel may need to know in an emergency. Name the document ICE (which stands for In Case of Emergency. Save a copy of the ICE document on your Survival Flash Drive.
This document is in the public domain. It may be copied and distributed freely.

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