This blog is for educational purposes only, not an offer of credit or advertisement for current loan terms. It does not provide legal advice. Refer to our loan web pages or consult professional advisors for specific information.
1. Craft Your Emergency Evacuation Plan
The safety of you and your loved ones are critical during a hurricane. A well-thought-out emergency evacuation plan is your first line of defense. Consider these crucial elements:
- Know Your Routes and Shelters: Familiarize yourself now with designated evacuation routes in your area and identify nearby shelters or safe havens.
- Family Planning: Discuss your evacuation plan with your family, ensuring everyone understands the procedures and designated meeting points. Assign specific tasks, such as gathering essential items or caring for pets.
- Assemble Your Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit containing nonperishable food, ample water, a first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, crucial documents, and any necessary medications.
- Stay Informed: Monitor the latest weather forecasts and official advisories through a battery-powered radio or a reliable smartphone app to receive timely updates.
- Evacuate Promptly: If evacuation orders are issued, don't delay. Leave early to avoid traffic congestion and potential hazards.
A well-rehearsed evacuation plan can significantly reduce anxiety and result in a safer experience.
2. Secure and Stock Your Home Before the Storm
Ensuring your home is secure and well-stocked is crucial for your comfort and safety during and after a hurricane. You never know how long you might be without access to essential supplies, so it's vital to have a substantial reserve of food and water.
- Stocking Up: FEMA recommends having at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and water for each person in your household. Don't forget to include non-electric utensils for easy access to your food. Purchasing these essentials at the start of hurricane season avoids last-minute rushes to stores that may be facing shortages and high demands as the storm approaches.
- Secure Your Property: Before the storm, take steps to protect your home by boarding up windows and doors, bringing outdoor furniture inside, and turning off utilities if instructed by authorities.
3. Fortify Yourself Against Fraud
Hurricane season can unfortunately bring out those who seek to exploit vulnerable situations. Be vigilant against financial scams and protect your finances.
- Fraudulent Businesses and Repair Companies: Be wary of unsolicited offers for home repairs or debris removal. Verify the legitimacy of any company before agreeing to services or making payments. Ask for identification, proof of insurance, and references. You can also look up the business on Sunbiz to confirm they are active and operational. Always be cautious of contractors who pressure for immediate decisions or cash payments.
- Sharing Personal Information: Never share personal information related to your bank accounts or other personal accounts with unsolicited sources. Remember, any unknown individual or entity requesting your personal information is likely attempting fraud.
- Activate Fraud Alerts on Your Debit or Credit Card: Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in your account profile to receive timely alerts about any suspicious activity. This allows our card processors to promptly notify you of potential fraud. Simply log in to Free Online Banking, navigate to your Profile and select Contact Consent. Here you can update your information and communication preferences.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union will never contact you asking for personal information such as your Online Banking login, debit/credit card or account number. If you have any doubts, feel free to give us a call directly. Our dedicated Help Desk is available at (863) 688-3733 or toll-free at (866) 913-3733.
4. Prepare Financially with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is here to support you and help safeguard your finances during a storm.
- Access to Funds: When a storm hits, access to ATMs and branches may be disrupted. It's wise to keep some cash on hand for immediate post-storm necessities. Remember, as a MIDFLORIDA member, you can conveniently use our ATMs or any Publix Presto! ATM for surcharge-free withdrawals. You can also manage your finances by downloading our mobile app and signing up for online banking (this convenient feature is available 24/7).
- Financial Documents: Prior to a major storm, gather comprehensive documentation of your finances (tax returns, W2s, recent pay stubs, etc.). This step will streamline any potential applications for assistance programs. Secure important financial certificates and forms in a safe, easily accessible location, whether digital or physical, to prevent losing them.
- Payments: Finally, ensure your financial obligations are settled before the storm's arrival. Pay important bills, make loan payments, and settle credit card balances in advance. This will help you avoid missed payments due to potential disruptions in internet or utility services.
For more information about how MIDFLORIDA Credit Union can assist you, please contact us. Additionally, for the latest storm-related announcements and updates, be sure to visit our dedicated Storm Updates page.
