Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida last week, and Hurricane Franklin meandered around Bermuda before finally absorbing another storm and falling apart.
The National Hurricane Center is currently tracking three storms in the Atlantic and one in the Pacific. One of those storms, or a storm not yet on the center’s tracking maps, could come to a coast near you.
If you are anywhere in a region affected by hurricane tracking forecasts, sending a supportive and informative message to clients can help you demonstrate your care and commitment during a challenging time.
You can also demonstrate your ability to help clients prepare for the future.
Here’s an example message that insurance agents and financial advisors could use as a template:
Subject: We’re Here to Support You Through Hurricane [Hurricane Name]
Dear [Client's Name],
We hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and well. As Hurricane [Hurricane Name] approaches, we want you to know that our thoughts are with you during this challenging time. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need.
Here are a few tips and resources to help you navigate through the hurricane and its aftermath:
1. Review your insurance coverage.
If you haven’t already, please take a moment to review your insurance policies, including homeowners, renters, and flood insurance.
Understanding your coverage can help you make informed decisions as you assess any potential damage.
2. Collect emergency contact information.
Ensure you have easy access to emergency contact numbers for your insurance provider, as well as local authorities.
If you need to file a claim, reporting it as soon as possible will help streamline the process.
3. Document what you have.
Before the storm hits, take photos and videos of your property, both inside and outside.
This documentation will be valuable when assessing and documenting any damage for insurance claims.
4. Stay safe.
Your safety is paramount.
Please follow any evacuation orders issued by local authorities and have an emergency kit prepared, including essentials like water, non-perishable food, medication, and important documents.
5. Ask us for the help you need with filing claims.
Should you need to file an insurance claim, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Our team can help you navigate the claims process, provide guidance on documentation, and advocate for a fair resolution.
[Or, if your firm does not actually help clients with filing storm damage claims itself, talk about whatever help your firm can provide with putting clients in touch with the right people.]
6. Ask us for the help you need with financial recovery planning.
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to do so, we can help you create a financial recovery plan.
This plan will help you manage expenses, assess property damage, and make informed decisions about repairs and rebuilding.
7. Talk to us when you need someone to talk to.
We understand that this can be an emotionally challenging time.
Please remember that you’re not alone, and we’re here to provide not only financial guidance but also emotional support.
Please know that our lines of communication are open.
If you have any questions or concerns, or you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We’re here to support you and your family throughout this process.
Stay safe, stay strong, and remember that recovery is possible.
We’ll work together to navigate through these challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.
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A Fort Myers, Florida, resident walks through a neighborhood hit by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. (Photo: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg)