Quick Answer
Document property before evacuation by taking clear, high-quality photos and videos from multiple angles and recording serial numbers and descriptions of valuable items. Make digital copies of important documents and save them to a cloud storage service or external hard drive. Take notes on any specific features or settings.
Preparing for Documentation
Before you begin documenting your property, make sure you have a fully charged camera or smartphone, and a portable charger in case of an extended power outage. Take a few minutes to gather any necessary items, such as a camera, flashlight, and a notebook with pen.
Documenting Valuables
Start by taking clear, high-quality photos of any valuable items, such as jewelry, watches, and artwork. For each item, take a close-up shot and a shot from a few feet away to provide context. Consider using a tripod or stabilizing device to minimize camera shake. When photographing electronics, try to capture the serial numbers and any notable features. Take videos of complex electronics, such as computers and gaming systems, to document their functionality.
Documenting Important Documents
Gather any important documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and financial records, and scan them into a digital format. Save the digital copies to a cloud storage service or external hard drive, and consider keeping a paper copy in a safe and accessible location. Make sure to include any passwords or PINs for digital accounts, and store them securely. Consider taking a photo of the physical documents as a backup.
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