Emergency preparedness

What Customers Should Know About Their Bank During a Disaster

1. Your money is safe

• Even if locations close or systems are disrupted, your funds remain protected and accessible through backups and federal protections. 
• Banks maintain contingency and recovery plans to continue operations during disasters.

2. Access to banking may look different

During a storm, normal banking can be disrupted:

• Locations or ATMs may temporarily close or go offline due to power or network outages
• Digital access (online/mobile banking) may be limited if internet or power is down.
• Alternative options (ITMs, call centers, nearby branches) may still be available depending on conditions.

3. Have cash on hand

• Power outages can make card transactions or ATMs unreliable
• Customers should withdraw enough cash for essentials ahead of time.

4. Use digital tools before and during the storm

Encourage customers to:

• Enroll in online/mobile banking for remote access
• Save account info, login credentials, and contact numbers
• Set up alerts to monitor activity

This helps manage finances even if you evacuate or can’t reach a location.

5. Keep important financial documents safe

Customers should secure:

• IDs, insurance policies, and account information
• Recent statements and loan info

Ideally store copies digitally or in a waterproof container.

6. Stay updated with your bank

• Follow the bank’s website, social media, or alerts for:
  • Location closures
  • ATM outages
  • Service updates
• Banks will communicate changes in real time as conditions evolve.

7. Be alert for scams

• Fraud often increases after disasters
• Never share your PIN, passwords, or sensitive info
• Only contact your bank using official channels.
• If unsure hang up and call the number you know.

8. Plan ahead = less stress later

• Customers should have a financial preparedness plan and ensure they can access accounts remotely if needed

Four Steps to Preparedness

1. Know Your Risk

Understand the types of emergencies that may impact your area—such as hurricanes, flooding, severe weather, or power outages—and how they could affect your operations and safety.

2. Make a Plan

Create a clear emergency plan that includes:

• Evacuation routes and shelter locations
• Emergency contacts and communication methods
• Roles and responsibilities during an emergency

Practicing your plan ensures everyone knows what to do when time is critical. 

3. Build an Emergency Kit

Be prepared to operate independently if needed. Essential items include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food
• Flashlights and batteries
• First aid supplies
• Communication devices (radio or charged phones)

A disaster supply kit should support you for several days if services are unavailable. 

4. Stay Informed

Sign up for alerts and monitor local conditions:

• Weather alerts and emergency notifications
• Local news and official guidance

Emergency alerts provide critical, life-saving information quickly.

During an Emergency

• Follow official instructions immediately
• Evacuate or shelter-in-place as directed
• Stay connected via designated communication channels
• Avoid unnecessary travel and dangerous conditions

After an Emergency

• Confirm your safety and that of your family
• Document any damage

At First Liberty Bank, we have plans in place to maintain operations and
continue serving you—even during challenging conditions.

If you have questions about accessing your accounts or preparing your
financial information, our team is here to help.

Prepared communities are stronger communities.