Pat Ingelse

One of these days, the snow is going to fall, the roads will be slippery. You are going to be wishing the Automated Notification System would call to tell you not to rush plowing the driveway, because the bank is opening late. Come on, now…you know you are hoping!

How do you make sure you don’t miss that call? Here are a couple tips:

1. Put (800) 342-3459 in your contacts on your cell phone. Make the name something that will get your attention, such as “NSB Alert” or “BCP” or “Hey, It’s the Bank.”
2. Assign a unique ringtone to that number. The more unusual (or obnoxious), the better, so it gets your attention. Even if you are unable to view the caller name, you will hear that tone and know the call demands your attention.

While you’re at it, Ana-Marie Jones, executive director of Collaborating Agencies Responding to Disasters, also suggests that you put these numbers in your phone, as well: local emergency numbers, your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact and your neighbors’. These may come in handy during a weather emergency or some time down the line.

If the weather warrants a delayed opening or closing, we will still post notices with the local TV and radio stations. An automated notification will be sent out as soon as a decision has been made; if you are concerned about travel conditions, please contact your manager to discuss next steps. Hopefully, this winter will be mild, but there is a benefit in being safe and prepared.