Take financial steps to prepare for worst case scenario

KANSAS CITY, Missouri - Are you financially prepared for an unexpected disaster? For most people, the answer is no.

But many may be asking themselves that question following the devastating tornadoes to hit Joplin.

Consumer Credit Counselor Jana Root offers four steps to take before disaster strikes:

1) Be able to identify yourself. Make copies of your driver’s license, passport and medical records.
2) Record your financial information. Log your bank account, insurance and credit card numbers.
3) Inventory your valuables. Photograph and record all valuables in your home.
4) Have cash on hand.

"Make sure that you have small bills so that you can at least get your basic necessities until other resources arrive for you,” Root said.

Once you are prepared for the worst, make sure to make multiple copies and store in different locations.

"Have it in your deposit box at home or in a deposit box at a financial institution. Give it to a trusted relative or friend that lives outside of the area,” Root added.

It does not have to be a natural disaster. You can prepare yourself for fire or other emergency.

Secure websites can help you store your data online so you can access from anywhere.

Carbonite.com is a popular website.