You may be wondering why you are reading about financial preparedness on an emergency management blog, but being ready for a disaster is more than storing water and supplies. You also need to be financially ready. Starting early and having adequate insurance, a plan to pay your bills and access your important records and accounts will help you get back on your feet faster and avoid problems with your credit when you need it most.

Pre-disaster financial planning is essential for individuals and families to complete because disasters leave many Americans with expensive damages without access to finances. Safeguarding your finances and important records is easy if you start now—prior to a disaster or emergency.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has resources to help you strengthen your financial preparedness for disasters and emergencies at http://www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness.