Card machines and cashpoints can fail in a power cut. Paper records survive when phones do not. Be Ready includes cash and important documents in its checklist thinking.
Cash
- Keep a small amount of cash in notes and coins for buses, small shops or pay-and-display if cards are down.
- Do not keep large sums at home; enough for a couple of days of basics is the aim.
- Note where it is kept — grab bag or a known drawer — and tell another trusted adult in the household.
Documents to copy
Store waterproof copies (or photos on an offline power bank / printed sheet) of:
- ID and NHS numbers / GP details
- Insurance policies (home, car) and contact numbers
- Prescription list
- Proof of address
- Pet microchip numbers
Keep originals safe; put copies in the grab bag.
After flood or fire
Photograph damage for insurers before major clear-up where it is safe to do so (flooding guide). Do not enter unsafe buildings.
Digital backups
Encrypted cloud copies help if you still have data signal; they are not enough alone. Paper beats an empty phone battery.
Add document locations to your household emergency plan.