As another hurricane season begins, The Hope Coalition of America is working to make sure people prepare with more than just an evacuation plan.

Having a planned evacuation route and a supply kit filled with the necessities is important, but having a financial first aid kit ready is just as critical.

The coalition offers these easy steps to help people get the kit, which contains all financial and legal documents, together before the next hurricane hits.

• Round up important papers such as house deeds, birth certificates, car titles, passports and insurance policies. When the documents are located, they should be copied. Any documents that can't be located should prompt a call to the agency that has them, so a copy can be obtained for safekeeping.
• Compile a list of basic information about the family and how to get a hold of people like doctors and veterinarians. Things like employment information, allergies, required medicine, blood type and pertinent information about pets should be included.
• Once all papers are obtained and copied, they should be placed in a safe place inside a fireproof and waterproof metal box inside the home. Some money can also be included. ATMs won't work when the electricity is out and sometimes cash is not restocked during an emergency.
• Another option is to keep a copy of the documents with you as a storm approaches. Originals can be sent to a family member outside the hurricane zone.

Most importantly, records should be kept current throughout the storm season, experts said. People should update their financial first aid kit every year.

To comment on this story, send an e-mail to Tony Mainolfi.

Additional Resource:

• Financial First-Aid Kit Checklist