Table of Contents
The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
Are you ready for a family emergency? It’s tough to imagine such situations and how we would respond, but life is full of unpredictable moments. It’s always better to be safe and prepared, just in case. Whether it’s dealing with a death, a break-in, or any other emergency, there are steps we can all take to ease the stress that comes with these situations.
One crucial aspect of preparedness is having an emergency list with essential names and numbers. This list serves as a lifeline during critical times. Now, creating an emergency list shouldn’t overwhelm you. It doesn’t have to be complicated at all. The most important thing is to take that first step and make your list, then share it only with those you trust. Keep a copy in a secure place within your home and let trusted individuals know where it can be found.
An emergency list can take different forms—it can be a physical document or stored digitally. It can be as simple as a list of your healthcare wishes. If you include healthcare wishes, it’s important to check with your doctor to see if any official documents are required to accompany your requests. On the other hand, it can be more comprehensive, including detailed information for each family member.
Creating Your Emergency List
Remember, an emergency list is not just about having your doctor’s phone number. It’s a place to consolidate all the important information that you usually keep in your head or handle automatically. Think about passwords, codes, online payments, and other vital details. Let’s go over some suggested items to include on your emergency list:
Healthcare Information
Doctor’s contact information: Start with the contact details of your doctor. Also, include your SIP card number and any company details if you have private medical insurance. If you don’t have a SIP card, make sure to list your current medications, and remember to update this information as needed.
Health Insurance: If you have insurance coverage, include the contact numbers for these services. Don’t forget to provide details of your insurance company, policy number, and telephone contact.
Special conditions and medications: Make sure your emergency list includes a list of any special conditions or medications for each family member. Include information about allergies, specific medications, and any necessary medical equipment. And don’t forget to include details about your pets too!
Personal Identification
It’s crucial to include details of your identification documents, such as your TIE, NIE, SIP card, and passport numbers. These will likely be required at some point.
PINs for Mobile Phones and Other Devices
In today’s digital age, it’s important to include PINs (Personal Identification Numbers) for your mobile phone and other devices in your emergency list. These PINs provide access to your devices and may be necessary in emergency situations or when others need to handle your affairs. Here are some key PINs to consider:
Mobile Phone PIN: Include the PIN code required to unlock your mobile phone. This will allow authorized individuals to access your contacts, make necessary calls, or retrieve important information stored on your device.
SIM Card PIN: If your mobile phone uses a SIM card with a PIN lock, provide the PIN code for the SIM card. This PIN is essential for activating the SIM card in case it gets locked or requires reinsertion.
Device Passcodes: If you have other digital devices such as tablets, laptops, or personal computers, include the passcodes required to unlock them. This will enable others to access important files, documents, or online accounts that might be necessary during emergencies.
By including these PINs in your emergency list, trusted individuals can handle urgent matters and access vital information on your behalf if needed. Remember to update these PINs whenever you make changes to your mobile phone or device security settings to ensure the accuracy of the information.
Note: While it’s crucial to share these PINs with trusted individuals, exercise caution and only provide this sensitive information to people you fully trust, such as family members or close friends.
Local Contacts
Include the number of someone trustworthy who lives nearby. This should be someone who can be quickly called upon to provide assistance in case of an emergency. Consider a trusted neighbor, friend, or landlord.
Next of Kin
Alongside a local contact, consider including another relative or next of kin who should be informed in case of an emergency. Provide their home address and any contact details you may have.
Work Contact
A work contact is someone you work with who can reach out to you while you’re at work. This could be your boss, a close co-worker, or your work business number.
Pet Information and Veterinary Contacts
Taking care of our furry friends is an essential part of emergency preparedness. It is important to include your pet(s) information in your emergency list and provide guidance on how to ensure their well-being during unexpected situations. Include veterinarian’s contact information, any identification numbers related to your pets (such as passports or microchip details), and instructions for emergency veterinary care. By including this information, you can ensure that your beloved pets receive the necessary attention and care, even in times of crisis.
Funeral Policy Contacts
If you have a funeral plan, include details of the plan and contact information for the local representative. It’s also recommended to have a note on your emergency list regarding your wishes following your death.
Electric and Utility Companies
List the names of each utility company that applies to your home. Include account details and passwords if your utility bills are managed digitally. Also, include any emergency contact numbers these companies may have.
Banking and Financial Information
Personal finances can be sensitive, so it’s not recommended to share passwords and codes with anyone outside your immediate family. However, it’s essential to discuss digital banking, passwords, and bank accounts with your spouse or partner to ensure they have access to funds in case of an emergency.
Important Legal Documents
Power of Attorney: If you have a power of attorney legally in place, include the details on your emergency list. Don’t forget to include contact information for the solicitor who dealt with the Power of Attorney.
Deeds to Property/Rental agreement/Will: Provide details of where these important documents are located, including contact information for your legal representative.
Insurance Information
Home/Car Insurance: Include the name and policy number for all types of insurance. These companies should be notified in the event of the named policyholder’s death.
Managing Deaths for Canadians, US and UK Citizens (Additional Information)
For Canadians, US citizens, and UK citizens:
In Canada, death certificates can be obtained through the Vital Statistics office of the province or territory where the death occurred. Contact the respective Vital Statistics agency for detailed instructions on how to obtain the death certificate.
In the USA, death certificates are issued by the vital records office of the state where the death occurred. Procedures for obtaining death certificates may vary by state, so it’s best to contact the vital records office in the relevant state for specific instructions.
In the UK, death certificates can be obtained from the General Register Office (GRO) in England and Wales, the National Records of Scotland, or the General Register Office for Northern Ireland. You can apply for a death certificate online or by mail. Visit the respective government websites for detailed instructions on how to obtain a death certificate in each jurisdiction.
Death certificates are essential for various purposes, including handling estate matters, claiming benefits, and settling legal matters. Make sure to obtain multiple copies of the death certificate, as they may be required by different authorities and organizations.
Notifying Relevant Authorities and Government Agencies
Notify relevant authorities in Spain
Inform the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) to remove the deceased’s information from the Padron.
Notify relevant authorities in Canada, USA, and UK
In Canada, inform the local municipality or city hall to update the deceased’s information.
In the USA, contact the local government office or county clerk to update records.
In the UK, inform the local government office to update the deceased’s information.
Canceling driving licenses
In Canada, contact the local licensing authority to cancel the deceased’s driver’s license if applicable.
In the USA, inform the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to cancel the deceased’s driver’s license if applicable.
In the UK, notify the DVLC if the deceased had a UK driving license.
Contacting government agencies
In Canada, notify the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and the Old Age Security (OAS) program about the death.
In the USA, inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) about the death.
In the UK, contact the Department for Work and Pensions to report the death. If a UK will existed or the deceased owned property/assets in the UK, notify the Probate Office. Inform the Paymaster General if the deceased received payments from a state or company pension in the UK. Contact the Inland Revenue if the deceased paid UK tax.
Remember to obtain death certificates for your records and to provide them as necessary when contacting these authorities and agencies.
Informing Financial Institutions and Insurance Companies
Notify banks in Canada, USA, UK, Spain, and elsewhere where the deceased held accounts. Keep in mind that 50% of joint account funds are usually frozen until all formalities and inheritance fees are finalized. Notify insurance companies that held life policies on the deceased’s life.
Keep records. Obtain a death certificate for your own records, as it may be needed for future arrangements such as renting a niche for the deceased or relocating their remains.
Stay Prepared and Download Your Emergency List
Download our comprehensive emergency list template now! Whether you prefer printing it out or filling it digitally, this essential resource will help you stay prepared for any emergency. Don’t wait until it’s too late—be proactive and ensure you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Get your emergency list today and gain peace of mind knowing you’re ready for the unexpected.
Reminder: If you are digitally filling in this form, don’t forget to save your changes. Click ‘Save’ or ‘Save As’ to store the updated document securely on your device. Saving your changes will ensure that your information is readily accessible when needed. Stay prepared and keep your emergency list up to date.
