With hurricane season, quickly approaching now is the time to make sure you have a plan in place should a storm head your way. While you cannot control when or where a hurricane will hit, the best way to minimize potential damage is to be prepared.
Here are some important tips:
- Stay informed by listening to your local news channels for important updates. You can also download the FEMA app to receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service. Be aware of the Emergency Alert System in your area.
- Have a plan ready in the event evacuation is necessary. Be sure to turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans.
- Secure the exterior of your home by trimming large trees, shrubs, bring in all outside patio furniture, potted plants and toys.
- Protect windows and doors with appropriate shutters or nail pieces of plywood to window frames.
- Make sure you have your belongings documented by taking pictures and/or videos of them.
- Move all cars to higher ground. Avoid parking under trees, power lines and low-lying areas.
- Fill your car’s gas tank, make sure your cell phones are charged, purchase backup charging devices to power your electronics, test your generator and have plenty of fuel ready in case of power outages.
- Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space if possible.
- Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing and toiletries.
- Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant supplies, masks and pet supplies.
- Identify a shelter room within your home. This area should be on the first floor in the central part of the house with no windows.
At TDECU, the safety and security of our Members is our top priority. Even though we cannot predict if this hurricane season will impact us, we are ready to continue serving you throughout these types of natural disasters by providing you access to your TDECU accounts through free digital banking, at TDECU and surcharge-FREE Allpoint® ATMs, or by using your TDECU VISA® debit card or Mastercard® credit card.