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
  • Cataclysm and Challenge: Impact of September 11, 2001, On Our Nation's Cultural Heritage, A Report by Heritage Preservation
  • Primer on Disaster Preparedness, Management, and Response. This includes the Smithsonian Institution Staff Disaster Preparedness Procedures and other information about disaster reponse.
  • Mold and Mildew: Prevention of Microorganism Growth In Museum Collections
  • Procedures for Salvage of Water Damaged Library Materials
  • AIC-Cert Rapid Response Team for Cultural Institutions
  • Fire Protection in Cultural Institutions


  • Cologne City Archives Disaster

    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
      • flood 3
    • 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
    4.  Other general tips to keep in mind flood 1

    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
      • flood 2



    • Textiles
    • Furniture
    • Ceramics, stone, and metal objects
    • Organic materials
    • Natural history specimens: may pose a health issue
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