I. Material and Construction of the DeathBox
Base Material
Robust and weatherproof material chosen (e.g., metal, strong wood with protective varnish, durable plastic).
Material is non-toxic and will not decompose in an environmentally harmful way over the long term.
Size of the box is sufficient for its intended purpose and contents.
Weight of the empty box is practical for transport and handling.
DeathBox Components - Exploded View
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A Robust Outdoor Case with Foam Inserts
Protects contents from impacts, dust, and moisture.
External DVD Writer/Reader & M-Discs
For extremely durable archiving of digital data. M-Discs are designed for a lifespan of up to 1000 years.
USB-C Stick
For quick transfer of current data from mobile devices or for daily use of important but less sensitive information.
Document-Proof Notebook and Pen
For handwritten notes, passwords (use with caution!), instructions, or personal messages that will remain legible for years to come.
Plastic Sleeves & Organization System
To protect important original documents and photos from wear and moisture.
Lid and Closure
Secure and tight closure mechanism present (e.g., screws, robust buckles, lockable system).
Lid closes flush and prevents the ingress of moisture and pests.
If necessary: Provision for a padlock or seal available.
Hinges (if present) are stable and durable.
Interior
Interior is smooth and easy to clean.
If necessary: Dividers or compartments planned/present for organizing the contents.
Ventilation system considered (especially important for organic materials).
Protection against condensation inside the box considered.
Labeling
Clear and permanent labeling of the box (e.g., sticker, engraving) with relevant information (e.g., "DeathBox", date of creation, responsible parties).
Warning notices or specific instructions for handling and contents attached (if necessary).
Environmental Aspects
Sustainability and recyclability considered in material selection (if relevant).
Disposal of the material at the end of the box's lifespan considered.
II. Content of the DeathBox
Basic Information
Detailed instructions for using the DeathBox.
List of all included materials and their purpose.
Contact details of responsible persons or organizations.
Date of the last review and update of the contents.
Specific Content (depending on purpose)
Emergency Equipment
First aid supplies (complete and up-to-date).
Communication devices (e.g., radio, satellite phone with instructions).
Power source (e.g., batteries, solar panel with charger).
Light source (e.g., flashlight with spare batteries).
Tools (e.g., multi-tool, knife, screwdriver).
Emergency food and water (shelf-stable and sufficient).
Weather protection (e.g., emergency blanket, rainwear).
Navigation aid (e.g., map, compass).
Documents
Copies of important documents (e.g., identification, insurance policies, medical information).
Emergency contacts.
Instructions for specific situations.
Digital copies on a USB drive (waterproof packaging).
Miscellaneous
Cash in various currencies.
Hygiene items.
Personal medications (with package insert and expiration date).
Specific equipment for the intended use (e.g., sampling containers, measuring instruments).
Psychological support materials (if relevant).
Digital Assets
Cryptocurrency inventory - List of all cryptocurrency holdings, including types, approximate amounts (optional), and which wallets/exchanges they're stored in.
Wallet access information - For hardware wallets: brand, model, location, PIN (stored securely), and any passphrase used in addition to the seed phrase.
Seed phrases/recovery keys - Securely stored seed phrases (12/24 words) for each wallet, ideally:
- Written on durable, water-resistant material (metal plates, specialized products)
- Never stored digitally or photographed
- Split into multiple parts if using advanced security (Shamir's Secret Sharing)
- Stored in tamper-evident packaging
Exchange accounts - List of cryptocurrency exchanges used, with account details and 2FA recovery methods (backup codes stored securely).
Recovery instructions - Step-by-step guide for heirs on how to access and transfer digital assets, including:
- How to use the seed phrase with specific wallet software
- How to safely transfer assets to their own wallets
- Contact information for a trusted crypto-knowledgeable person who can assist
NFTs and digital collectibles - Inventory of owned NFTs, including which wallet/account holds them and their approximate value.
Security precautions - Clear warnings about:
- Never sharing seed phrases electronically
- Risks of scams targeting heirs who may be unfamiliar with cryptocurrency
- Importance of transferring assets promptly once accessed
Multi-signature arrangements - Documentation of any multi-signature wallets, including which parties hold keys and the process for recovery.
Tax and legal considerations - Information about tax implications of cryptocurrency inheritance in your jurisdiction and any specific instructions for reporting.
Regular verification system - Schedule and process for regularly verifying that all digital asset information remains current and recovery methods still work.
Review and Maintenance
Regular schedule for reviewing the contents established.
Checklist for content inspection created.
Responsible person for maintenance assigned.
Replacement of expired or damaged materials ensured.
III. Use of the DeathBox
Purpose Definition
Clearly defined purpose of the DeathBox documented.
Target group of the DeathBox identified.
Access and Availability
Location of the DeathBox clearly documented and easily accessible.
Keys or access codes securely stored and known to authorized personnel.
Emergency plan for access in case of need created.
Training and Information
Training sessions for potential users on how to handle the DeathBox conducted.
Information material on correct usage provided.
Clear instructions for various application scenarios available.
Protocols
Logbook for the removal and use of contents maintained.
Procedures for refilling and replacing removed materials established.
Feedback mechanism for users to improve content and handling established.
IV. Creation and Implementation of the DeathBox
Planning Phase
Needs analysis conducted (which scenarios should be covered?).
Budget for material and content established.
Responsible persons for creation and maintenance assigned.
Timeline for creation and implementation established.
Procurement
Materials and equipment procured according to the checklist.
Suppliers and quality of materials checked.
Assembly
Contents carefully stored in the box according to instructions.
Order and clarity inside the box ensured.
Protection against damage during transport and storage ensured.
Placement and Installation
Suitable location for the DeathBox selected (easily accessible, safe from environmental influences).
If necessary: Secure mounting of the box ensured.
Testing and Evaluation
Functionality of all components checked.
Practical handling test performed.
Feedback from potential users obtained and considered.
Documentation and Communication
Comprehensive documentation of the DeathBox (content, use, maintenance) created.
Information communicated to relevant persons and organizations.
Regular Review and Adaptation
Established schedule for reviewing the entire DeathBox (material, content, condition).
Adaptation of content and procedures to changing needs and findings.