Wildfires, Floods, and the Unexpected: Why Every Family Needs an Emergency Estate Plan
We can’t predict natural disasters but we can prepare for them. Here in Washington, families face real risks from wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and severe storms. Most households think of stocking emergency kits or planning evacuation routes—but few realize estate planning is just as important for true preparedness.
An emergency estate plan ensures your loved ones can access critical information, make timely decisions, and protect your legacy if disaster strikes. Here’s why it matters and what every Washington family should consider.
Estate Planning as Part of Preparedness
When we talk about “preparedness,” it’s usually physical—food, water, shelter, medical supplies. But legal and financial readiness is just as important. If your family had to leave home suddenly or you were incapacitated by injury or illness, would they know where to find your estate documents? Could they access your accounts? Would they have the legal authority to make medical decisions on your behalf?
Estate planning answers these questions ahead of time. It provides clarity and authority, which prevents confusion and stress in an already overwhelming situation.
Storing Estate Documents Safely
One of the most overlooked aspects of preparedness is document storage. Original wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives must be protected from fire, flood, and loss. Consider:
Fireproof and waterproof storage: Keep originals in a fireproof safe at home.
Digital backups: Securely store copies in a cloud-based vault or encrypted drive.
Trusted access: Share location details with your attorney or a trusted loved one so documents can be retrieved when needed.
Without secure storage, even the best-prepared estate plan can become useless in an emergency.
Digital Access and Accounts
Disasters often disrupt everyday systems—bank access, bill payments, and even communication. A modern estate plan should include digital planning:
A list of key accounts (banking, insurance, utilities).
Login credentials stored securely through a password manager or estate planning tool.
Authorization for a trusted agent to access digital property, including email, photos, and cloud storage.
This ensures loved ones aren’t locked out of important information when time is of the essence.
Medical Directives and Powers of Attorney
Wildfires, floods, or other disasters can result in sudden injuries or hospitalizations. Having advance health care directives and durable powers of attorney in place ensures someone you trust can step in immediately. Without these, families often face delays, red tape, or even court involvement before they can act.
Acting Quickly When It Matters Most
An emergency estate plan gives your family tools to act without hesitation. From authorizing medical care to paying urgent expenses or filing insurance claims, your loved ones won’t be left guessing what you wanted or struggling for access.
Peace of Mind for Washington Families
Emergency preparedness isn’t just about surviving the storm—it’s about making sure your family has stability and guidance in the aftermath. By including estate planning in your preparedness strategy, you can rest easier knowing your loved ones will have the clarity and resources they need, no matter what comes their way.
At Woodinville Law, we help Washington families build estate plans that protect against the unexpected. If you’d like to create or update your plan this fall, we’re here to guide you through the process with care and expertise.
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice regarding your specific legal situation, please consult a qualified attorney. The law is subject to change, and the accuracy of the information may vary over time.