Keeping records in a safe, secure place in your home
will greatly reduce the chance that your family will suffer catastrophic losses in the event it is burglarized. It will also ensure these irreplaceable papers won't be lost.
Among the documents you'll want to compile and stash here is a complete inventory - include receipts if possible - of your electronic and computer equipment. This is also the place to store birth certificates, passports, social security cards, mortgage documents, and car purchase or lease documents.
An inventory of your valuables involves more than just making a list; you'll also want to write down particulars such as the item's price when purchased; the year purchased, and place of purchase, and a detailed description of each item. Be sure to include serial numbers if the item has one.
In the event of a burglary, should your stolen valuables be recovered, the serial numbers will give police positive identification so they can trace the items back to you. Photograph or video the items for backup.
For extra security, use an engraving pen to write your name, phone number, or other identifying information on your valuables. Engraving these items make it harder for a thief to sell.
Is it time-consuming to do all this? Sure. But it's a lot less time-consuming than filing police and insurance reports knowing that your unmarked valuables have prime cash value and likely have been easily sold.
Now, the most important part: What should you store these essential papers in? Choose a safebox that's both fire-proof and waterproof, with either a key or a combination lock. Then store it somewhere thieves are unlikely to look - such as in the garage or in the back of a child's closet.
