Everyone has important documents that they need to keep secure, from birth certificates to bank records. It is possible to keep important documents securely in an disaster or emergency with some planning, organization, digitizing, and storage tools.
The most popular place to store key originals is a bank safe deposit box. It’s not expensive and offers an excellent level of security. However, you have to visit the bank during business hours to obtain your documents when you need them.
A reputable fireproof and waterproof document safe is a second option. Honeywell’s 1104 is a check my source good choice, but the mini-refrigerator-sized model is more expensive at $125. It can hold hanging file organizers and keeps them intact for up to an hour in temperatures up to 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit. it also shields against water intrusion for hours.
Whatever container you use to store your paper documents for long-term storage, you should store them flat and not roll them or fold them. This will keep the documents from becoming damaged or becoming faded over time. Avoid using rubber bands or paper clips to hold pages together as these can cause corrosion, tear the document and damage its integrity.
People who want to be more cautious regarding their storage of documents on paper can purchase archival boxes and sleeves that are constructed from materials that don’t degrade over time, like polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These items can be bought at office supply or hardware stores. The PVC material can also help to protect documents from moisture, which can damage them.