Gather any originals or copies of valuable documents, which might include credit card numbers, Social Security cards, birth certificates, passports, bank account information, discs of photos for insurance purposes, and a utility bill to provide proof of where your home is (or was) located.

FORBES: How To Prepare For An Emergency

Experts also recommend storing bank records, important contact information for creditors and insurance companies, as well as copies of social security cards and drivers licenses in a safe, second location.

CNN: High tides and higher interest rates: Wading through financial storms