American Express recommends that residents in areas at risk for hurricanes prepare a "diversified wallet" that includes various forms of payments such as cash and Travelers Cheques, which are replaceable if lost, stolen or destroyed.

American Express works closely with disaster relief organizations across the country and has a long history of helping its customers, employees and communities cope with emergencies such as hurricanes. For many years, the company has contributed to disaster relief efforts across the country.

The company provides complete hurricane preparation recommendations to its 6,000 employees in Florida -- which was hit hard by last year's hurricanes. An internal Website at American Express centralizes emergency management, utility and disaster relief organizations' phone numbers, and links to other sources of emergency information, as well as a list of items that should be on hand in case of emergency.

For 115 years, travelers have carried American Express® Travelers Cheques with the confidence that they can be replaced quickly and easily. Travelers Cheques never expire, so they provide a secure payment method whenever emergencies occur. Many people, particularly in some international countries, have long recognized that keeping Travelers Cheques at home is a safer alternative than cash.

About American Express
American Express Company (www.americanexpress.com) is a leading global payments, network and travel company founded in 1850.