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Disaster Response and Recovery

A pro-active rather than re-active approach to disaster preparation is the best means of mitigating damage from natural disasters or other forms of destruction.

However, despite systematic planning efforts, when emergencies do occur — whether they are small scale or catastrophic — they can be overwhelming. Information in this section provides information and guidance on recovering various types of record materials.

Information and Guidance Tools

General Information Institutional procedures and policies for emergency response.
Saving Family Treasures Guidelines organized by specific material.
Salvage Procedures Recommendations for dealing with wet documents, books, photos, and other materials.
Products and Services Web site sources for conservation services, vendors, and supplies for disaster response.

Please be Aware

Always put health and human safety first before trying to save important collections, papers, books, or photographs.
Make sure the area has been declared safe to enter by the appropriate authorities.