Pensacola, Florida (August 26, 2024) – As hurricane season continues, PenAir Credit Union (PenAir) reminds residents to ensure they are financially prepared for the possibility of severe weather. With the potential for hurricanes to disrupt daily life, cause widespread power outages, and necessitate evacuations, financial readiness is crucial to safeguarding your family’s well-being.
“Being financially ready means having access to essential resources and ensuring financial security during and after a hurricane,” said Lewis Garvin, Corporate Communications Manager at PenAir. “Those who have lived in the area for a while know that you must be ‘one-week ready,’ meaning having enough water, non-perishable food items, medical supplies, and other essential items for the first week of any outage. However, most forget about being ready financially.”
Integrating financial readiness into your hurricane preparation plan is vital. Here are a few key steps to being financially prepared for severe weather:
- Create an Emergency Budget: Outline essential expenses such as food, water, gas, and accommodations in case of evacuation.
- Secure Important Documents and Review Insurance Policies: Store physical copies of critical documents and consider digital backups. Make sure your home, auto, and personal property insurance are up-to-date and understand the claims process.
- Utilize Online Services: Ensure you have online access to your bank accounts. Familiarize yourself with mobile banking apps.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Keep cash on hand for purchases if electronic payment systems are down.
PenAir Credit Union provides access to certified financial counselors who can assist with financial preparation for hurricane season, including creating an emergency budget and savings plan. To learn more or speak with a financial counselor, visit
penair.org or call 850-505-3200
For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit PenAir’s Hurricane Online Resource Center at https://www.penair.org/resources/operational-updates/#hurricane. Here, you will find helpful tips and contact information for your county’s Emergency Management Team. For comprehensive emergency and disaster planning, visit Escambia County’s “Building a Disaster Kit” at https://myescambia.com/our-services/public-safety/beready/disaster-plan/building-a-disaster-kit.
About PenAir Credit Union
Established in 1936, PenAir Credit Union has been a bold force for good, uniting community, resources, and impact. With assets surpassing $3.1 billion, PenAir is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members from Mobile, Alabama, to Tallahassee, Florida. As a member-owned institution, PenAir prioritizes individual needs, ensuring tailored solutions for financial success. Beyond financial services, PenAir actively contributes to community growth through education, development projects, and charitable endeavors. Learn more about how PenAir is building a legacy of financial empowerment and community enrichment at www.penair.org.
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