Consumer & Business Response

Disasters are unpredictable and can be devastating to a community. But there is a lot your bank can do to help prepare your customers for these events.

Share these tips:

• Store important documents such as proof of identity, property ownership, insurance policies, bank and investment account information, and three years of tax returns in a bank safe-deposit box. Encase these items in plastic bags to prevent moisture.
• Prepare additional copies of critical documents such as birth certificates, adoption papers, marriage licenses and the deed to your home for safekeeping and inform a trustee, relative or attorney of their location.
• Print out key contact information for executors, trustees and guardians and store it in a secure location, either in your safe-deposit box or with a close relative.
• Inventory personal and household valuables (take photos and keep receipts) to help evaluate replacement costs.
• Include surplus cash, preferably small bills, in your home emergency kit. The kit should also include a three-day supply of food and water, a first aid kit, can opener, radio, flashlights and batteries.
• Create digital copies, which can serve as a supplement or backup to paper documents.  Scanned or electronic documents can be uploaded with secure online backup services.
• Contact your insurance agent or visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s website to determine if a flood insurance policy is right for you.