Personal Preparation

Utilities

Do you know how to turn off the water, gas and electricity? How the heating system works? Who is your service provider? If not, find out before a partner deploys, otherwise you can be sure something will happen just as the ship sails out of the English Channel.

Documents

Make sure you know where all the important documents are kept i.e. car documents, insurance documents, Next of Kin leaflet  with Service number and emergency contact details. You never know when you will want them, and it will probably be when time is short.

Renewal Dates

 Make a list of when important items are due for renewal. Although not exhaustive you need to be aware when the following are due: car tax, MOT, car service, TV licence, insurances.

The Will

Make sure you know where it is located. This isn't morbid and won't bring death one second closer: what it will do is remove another worry from the back of your mind.

Property

If your property is going to be empty for some time during the deployment, check that you are insured for your home and contents. Consider re-directing your mail, forms are available from your local Post Office.

It might also be worthwhile giving a door key to a friendly neighbour.