With the uncertainty of Tropical Storm Isaac, Connelly, Carlisle, Fields & Nichols (CCF&N) encourages all Floridians to establish and frequently revisit plans to deal with each phase of hurricane events — pre-storm, storm duration and post-storm.

Pre-Storm, Storm Duration and Post-Storm Activities

Each phase has distinct activities associated with mitigating or minimizing losses.  For example, pre-storm activities should include planning and activities that will occur within 36 to 48 hours of a storm’s arrival.  Storm duration activities should include how you will protect yourself and your business from the immediate hazards created during a storm event.  Post-storm activities should focus on returning operations to their pre-storm state and report loss claims as appropriate.

Preparedness Plan

A potentially helpful resource can be found at www.floridadisaster.org.  This site provides an outline to help from both a business and personal standpoint.

Carrier Claim Reporting Hurricane Specific

In the event of a hurricane, each insurance carrier will establish their own claims reporting phone numbers and procedures.  These numbers will be unique from standard claims reporting numbers.  These numbers will usually not be established until within 24-36 hours of a storm potentially making landfall.  Carriers prefer that clients report claims directly.  A list of insurance company contact numbers can be found HERE.

(Photo credited to businessinsider.com)

DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, and based on particular situations, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice, financial advice and/or the advice of a licensed insurance or certified human resource professional.

© Connelly, Carlisle, Fields & Nichols 2012