When disaster strikes -- at home or across the world -- it's easy to start panicking.  But that's the worst thing to do to yourself and your finances.

Even in times of uncertainty, your money is safe with Coosa Pines Federal Credit Union.  So don't run to an ATM (automated teller machine) and withdraw large amounts of cash.  If you planned to close on a house or to refinance, do it.  If you need a car, buy it.  Don't let fear cause you to make poor financial decisions.

Some things you can do with your money after a disaster:

* Keep cash in your accounts.  You'll place yourself at more risk -- from theft, fire, or anything else that can go wrong -- by withdrawing and holding large sums of cash.

* Pay your bills promptly.  If mail service is disrupted or slowed down, this will allow extra time for payments to get to their destination;

* Keep detailed records of your payments and contact the payee if your bill will be a little late this month;

* Consider contacting your credit card issuer, mortgage company, and other business to make sure they received your payments;

* Consider paying your bills online; CPFCU offers free online Bill Pay through our Virtual Branch Internet banking service, and

* Watch out for scams.  Stay away from "disaster deals" -- they don't exist.  Be more careful about safeguarding your personal financial information.

If Coosa Pines FCU or our area is affected by a disaster or crisis, or you are forced to evacuate and cannot reach our offices, you can access your CPFCU accounts at over 4,300 Credit Union Service Center locations across the United States.  Visit www.CreditUnion.net or call 1-800-919-CUSC (2872) for locations, hours, and directions.  For more on the Service Center Network, click here.  You can also download the Find Branch app.