As we reflect on the recently ended 2024 storm season, we want to closer examine our response to one of the most challenging events this year - Hurricane Milton. In the aftermath of this destructive storm, Crawford Catastrophe Services demonstrated our unwavering commitment to supporting communities affected by large-scale natural disasters. Our efforts extended from aiding recovery in Florida communities impacted by both Hurricanes Helene and Milton to restoring lives, businesses and neighborhoods. With a focus on swift, effective recovery, we remain dedicated to the people who rely on us to help them rebuild.
Our approach to catastrophe response is powered by the comprehensive training and continuous development of our team. This commitment has enabled us to respond effectively to the demands of large events like Hurricane Milton, with our highly skilled adjusters working to meet the needs of homeowners and business owners in some of the hardest-hit areas of Florida.
Responding to Hurricane Milton: Impact and immediate response
Hurricane Milton’s anticipated landfall was initially projected to strike Tampa directly. This led to heightened concerns due to Tampa’s unique vulnerability to flooding. However, Milton made landfall just south of the city, sparing Tampa from a worst-case scenario, while areas like Sarasota and Siesta Key suffered extensive damage. With nearly 3 million Floridians without power and record-breaking river levels across the state, the devastation and subsequent recovery needs are profound. As residents return and begin to rebuild, Crawford’s immediate focus remains on providing the timely, precise and empathetic claims service that policyholders deserve.
Training as the backbone of our catastrophe response
Our ability to handle large-scale disasters hinges on the preparedness of our adjusters, who often undergo rigorous and customer-focused training programs. This training equips them to manage a broad spectrum of claims, allowing policyholders to feel supported during these challenging times. We prioritize:
- Customer-centric claims handling: Adjusters are trained to address the specific needs of each policyholder empathetically, offering clear, compassionate communication and quick resolutions.
- Proficiency in key tools: Adjusters are highly skilled in essential tools like Xactimate and other technologies, enabling them to estimate damages and document claims accurately and efficiently.
- Carrier-specific knowledge: We provide targeted training that aligns with the guidelines of each insurance carrier, giving high-quality service for all stakeholders.
- Ongoing development: Our training doesn’t stop at deployment; adjusters benefit from continued learning through scenario-based training, mentorship and real-time support.
- Crawford Vision video platform: Our training resource offers brief, targeted lessons that adjusters can access in the field, covering topics from repair techniques to customer experience best practices.
The role of support hubs in Orlando
To facilitate a smooth recovery process, we established support hubs in Orlando where our staff and independent insurance adjusters could collaborate in real time. These centers provided essential resources, training and support for adjusters, centralizing communication with carriers to expedite claims and restore homeowners’ lives.
Looking forward: Training for the future
While we remain focused on the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Milton, we are also preparing for future events. Training and development are integral to our ability to respond quickly and effectively to any future catastrophes, preparing us so that when the next storm hits, Crawford Catastrophe Services is ready to lead the recovery efforts with skill, care and expertise.
For us, training and development are more than operation processes – they are the foundation of our commitment to policyholders and communities. With the right training, tools and support, Crawford adjusters will continue to be a reliable force in disaster recovery, helping to rebuild and restore the lives of those affected by catastrophic events.
