This post is brought to you by Master Lock. The content and opinions expressed are those of Your Modern Family.

I love the rain!

I could sit on our screened-in porch for hours and listen to the rain while I swing on our porch swing. I love it because it sounds peaceful, the world turns a serene gray, and the air smells fresh after a storm. I say this because I have never been caught in too severe of a storm — and that’s why planning ahead for severe weather is important.

Did you know it is National Preparedness Month? Master Lock is offering tips and products to help keep families and belongings safe during severe weather.

Here are a few items to consider for storm preparedness:

1. Master Lock Vault:

This is a digital safe-deposit box where you can store duplicate copies of your will, passports, tax returns, and other critical documents. It’s free and available 24 hours a day, so you can access important records from an app whenever you need them. Useful documents to store include:

• Your will and power of attorney, plus your lawyer’s contact information so they can be reached quickly.
• Birth certificates.
• Social Security cards.
• Property insurance information and your insurer’s phone number.
• Medical information: doctors’ phone numbers, prescriptions, and relevant medical records.
• Passports.
• Vehicle titles, a spare key for each car, and your house deed and key.
• Marriage certificate.
• A family photo.
• An itemized list of valuables in your home, organized room by room.

2. Master Lock Magnum Padlocks:

These weather-resistant padlocks are ideal for outdoor use. We use one on our shed, and they work well to secure generators, gates, and storage. The gold model features a resettable combination, so you can change the code when needed and share the combination with trusted family or friends without worrying about keys.

3. Python Adjustable Locking Cables:

These flexible cables are great for securing bikes, boats, ladders, tools, or lawnmowers. They resist rust and stand up to harsh weather, making them a practical choice for protecting equipment left outdoors.

Master Lock products appeal to me because of their quality and community involvement. For example, the company donated 200 Magnum padlocks to homeowners in eastern Washington after destructive wildfires. Master Lock also encourages supporting disaster relief organizations that help communities recover after storms.

Which Master Lock product does your family need?

For more information, consult Master Lock and resources on storm preparedness and severe weather planning to choose the right products for your household and ensure your important documents are protected.