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In Sandy's Wake, Preparing For Next Time

By John Ostapkovich

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - With so many people still dealing with the aftermath of destructive weather, now might be a good time to revisit the check-list of what to do to prepare for the next time.

A Bucks County financial services firm has a 10-point list on its website (click here to view the list), which runs from filling up the gas tank at the first sign of coming trouble, to keeping a list of important numbers, contacts and documents (and where they are located) so a power outage doesn't make all of your information a state secret.

Dave from Somerville thought the list makes sense. "We lost power for the last week so we can see the importance of keeping cash on hand and keeping the phones charged."

Julie from Baltimore found some her own habits on the list. "I actually stash some cash at home and at work in case ATM and credit cards go out.  I keep a pair of comfortable shoes in my car and I always listen to my mom who never lets the gas get below a quarter of a tank."

Other hints: contact your creditors before they notice your bills are late, to ask for a little leeway and take photos of your possessions to prove to the insurance company that you had what you say you had.

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