CAT response vehicle ready just in time for Tropical Storm Alberto

Florida insurance agents rolled out a new, state-of-the-art catastrophe response vehicle just in time for the arrival of Tropical Storm Alberto.

At press time for this issue, the National Hurricane Center was unsure whether the storm, which on June 13 was threatening the west coast of Florida, would remain a tropical storm or strengthen into a hurricane.

The Florida Association of Insurance Agents designed its response vehicle so that it could be deployed to disaster scenes within 24 hours of a storm.

“The greatest needs after a hurricane are supplies and communication capabilities,” Jeff Grady, FAIA president and CEO explained. “This highly-visible mobile command center will give our agents the tools and supplies they need to help customers begin the recovery process.”

The fully renovated mobile response unit is outfitted with the latest satellite and computer technology which will allow agents to pull up customer records and policies, assess damages, and file claims the first day of the storm. Also included on-board is a Direct TV satellite, global positioning system, satellite phone capability, XM satellite radio, wireless Internet access, a generator, laptops and printers. The vehicle also will be stocked with storm victim supplies, basic office recovery items and other useful disaster response resources.

“In the wake of a storm insurance agents are among the first to respond, in spite of the fact that they too are victims,” said Bill Gunter, former insurance commissioner. “But if communications systems are down and offices are severely damaged or destroyed, initiating the response process can be extremely challenging.

“Our customers and their families are our number one priority,” Gunter explained. “This vehicle will provide agents with the supplies and support they need to begin helping storm victims the very first day.”

Grady said FAIA wants customers to know that agents are going to be there for them when a storm hits. He said the vehicle is a highly visible way to show that. When not serving as an insurance command center, the vehicle will also serve as an educational tool, touring the state to provide collateral materials and consumer information. Brochures and tips sheets will cover topics ranging from purchasing homeowners coverage to protecting homes during hurricane season.