Emergency Preparedness

Links: for further information on disaster preparedness and relief.

American Institute for Conservation's (AIC) website on disaster response and recovery
AIC guidelines for responding to a disaster
Primer on Disaster Preparedness, Management, and Response. This includes the Smithsonian Institution Staff Disaster Preparedness Procedures and other information about disaster reponse.
Heritage Preservation's Resources for Emergency Planning and Preparedness
Heritage Preservation's Resources for Response and Recovery
How to Save Wet Books from Heritage Preservation
Procedures for Salvage of Water Damaged Library Materials
AIC-Cert Rapid Response Team for Cultural Institutions
Mold and Mildew: Prevention of Microorganism Growth In Museum Collections
Fire Protection in Cultural Institutions
Cataclysm and Challenge: Impact of September 11, 2001, On Our Nation's Cultural Heritage, A Report by Heritage Preservation

Steps to Salvaging Valuables at Home:

1. Disaster Alert (if you have advanced warning):

Videotape or photo document the current condition of your home and belongings
If possible, secure vital records, video or photo documentation, and high priority items
Screw plywood over windows or use duct tape to reduce shattering
Move items away from windows and into water-resistant areas
Wrap shelves and cabinets with heavy plastic sealed with waterproof tape
Move outdoor items indoors
Turn off water and electricity

2. After the Disaster - Returning Home

Safety first! Do not reenter without permission of the proper authorities
Document the condition of all damaged items for insurance purposes
Notify your insurance representative about significant loses
Check for evidence of mold throughout the damaged area

3. Salvage Priority

Salvage items that are of the greatest importance to you
Focus on fragile items most prone to damage if left untreated
Pay attention to items most likely to be successfully salvaged

Other general tips to keep in mind:

In case of flooding:

Remove standing water from basement
Remove flood-soaked insulation, wallboard and nonhistoric wall coverings
Air dry with good ventilation
Contact a conservator to help you with valuables

Types of salvaged and other valuable items which you should bring to the attention of a conservator:

Framed artwork
Photographs
Books and paper
Textiles
Furniture
Ceramics, stone, and metal objects
Organic materials
Natural history specimens: may pose a health issue

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