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Why having cash, an emergency fund is vital when preparing hurricane disaster kit

Think about how you're preparing financially before a weather disaster impacts not only your home, but your bank account.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — It's one thing to stock up on supplies to survive any kind of storm, but First Florida Credit Union says you may want to think about putting money aside for an emergency fund.

During a time like hurricane season, an emergency fund provides financial security and stability so that people don't have to rely on credit or loans to cover unexpected expenses. Those expenses could be a hotel room to stay in while evacuated, gas for a generator or even additional food.

Ashleigh Robinson with First Florida Credit Union says it's important to think about how you're going to pay for those items.

"It's important to always have cash on hand and you want to make sure you get that well ahead of a storm because you might not have power," Robinson told First Coast News. "And so, electronic forms of payment may not be accepted."

The First Florida Credit Union also suggests looking over your homeowner's insurance. Check if you have flood coverage or consider windstorm insurance if you live in a flood prone area.

And when it comes to prepping your house, investing in quality hurricane shutters or impact windows, could go a long way. That investment upfront may save you dollars later on.

“So important to review your insurance coverage ahead of hurricane season to ensure that you're protected: your home, your belongings, and your other assets. You want to make sure you've checked your insurance coverage limits and make sure you don't have any insurance gaps and even consider other coverages that you might need to protect yourself,” Robinson said.

Ahead of any storm, you want to make sure your financial documents are safe in a waterproof, fireproof container and backing up those documents digitally so you can have them on hand when the storm is over.

RELATED: 2024 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday: Here are the items you can buy to stay storm-ready

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