From Go Bag to Green Light: Storm Deployment Essentials

When storm season hits, adjusters are on the front lines, helping policyholders recover from some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Preparation is the difference between a smooth deployment and a stressful one.

At AdStrat, we know that storm deployment is more than just arriving at the scene, it’s about being prepared before you go, staying organized while you’re there, and delivering exceptional service from the first inspection to the last claim.

Here’s how to be deployment-ready from the moment you get the call to the moment you close the last file.

1. Build and Maintain Your Go Bag

A fully stocked go bag means you’re ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice. Keep it packed year-round with:

• Technology: Laptop, smartphone, hotspot, chargers, spare batteries.

• Field Tools: Measuring tape, laser measure, flashlight, PPE, and gloves.

• Personal Essentials: Snacks, bottled water, first aid kit, hygiene supplies, weather-appropriate clothing, and rain gear.

• Documents: Licenses, certifications, claims manual, questionnaires, insurance cards, and AdStrat ID badge.

Pro Tip: Check your bag at the start of storm season to replace expired supplies and update tech accessories. Regularly rotate perishables and batteries to ensure everything is operational.

2. Make Sure AdStrat Has Your Updated Information

Before storm season, confirm that AdStrat has your:

• Current contact details (phone, email, address)

• Valid and active licenses

• Deployment availability and travel limitations

Having accurate information ensures you can be assigned quickly, avoids delays, and helps AdStrat coordinate teams efficiently.

3. Double-Check Your Tech Before Deployment

Technology is critical to completing claims efficiently. Before leaving:

• Update Software and Platforms: Make sure all estimating tools and claims platforms are current with the correct subscriptions. Make sure you have access to any claims systems you will be working in such as CMS.

• Backup Files: Ensure critical documents, photos, and claim forms are backed up to a secure cloud or external drive.

• Test Connectivity: Check hotspot and mobile signal coverage for your deployment area.

• Prepare Offline Access: Download maps, forms, and guidelines for use in low-service areas.

Being proactive with technology reduces downtime and avoids unnecessary stress in the field.

4. Refresh Your Knowledge

Before heading out on deployment, a quick knowledge refresh can make a big difference in efficiency and accuracy in the field. Take time to:

• Review Carrier-Specific Guidelines: Revisit each carrier’s claim protocols and documentation requirements.

• Review AdStrat Guidelines and Expectations: Ensure familiarity with internal procedures, timelines, reporting standards, and best practices for professionalism, safety, and policyholder interactions.

• Brush Up on Estimating Software or Claim Protocols: Practice entering data, taking measurements, or navigating software you haven’t used recently.

• Leverage Peer Knowledge: Ask fellow adjusters or supervisors for tips or updates on challenging scenarios.

• Plan for Complex Situations: Consider unusual claim types or scenarios from past storms so you’re mentally prepared to handle them confidently.

Refreshing your knowledge ensures efficiency, reduces errors, and supports AdStrat’s commitment to excellent service.

5. Prepare for Lodging and Travel Flexibility

Storm zones shift quickly, and so will your lodging options. What’s available when you first get the call may be completely booked or inaccessible by the time you arrive. To stay ahead:

• Have Multiple Options Ready: Keep a running list of hotels, motels, and extended-stay facilities along your likely route and in surrounding towns.

• Leverage AdStrat Resources: Reach out to our team for assistance — AdStrat often has information of available lodging near storm zones.

• Ask Your Peers: Fellow adjusters in the field are an excellent source for last-minute recommendations. Check in with them for current availability and safe routes.

• Plan for the Unexpected: Be ready to change course if a location becomes unsafe, flooded, or over capacity.

• Emergency Fuel Planning: Keep extra fuel in approved containers if possible, and identify reliable fueling points along your travel path, especially in rural or high-impact areas.

Being flexible and connected, both with AdStrat and other adjusters, will help you secure a safe place to rest, even in fast-changing conditions.

6. Mental Readiness for the Field

Storm deployment can be intense and emotionally taxing. Prepare yourself by:

• Setting Daily Goals: Break claims and inspections into achievable daily targets to maintain productivity without burnout.

• Establishing a Routine: Incorporate short wellness breaks, stretching, or quick walks to stay physically and mentally alert.

• Staying Connected: Keep in touch with colleagues, supervisors, and family to manage stress and maintain morale. Make sure to also visit the AdStrat storm office during large events for support and a collaborative work space.

• Mindset Preparation: Focus on adaptability, patience, and empathy — every claim represents a policyholder in need.

Mental readiness allows adjusters to handle long hours, unpredictable conditions, and emotionally charged situations while maintaining professionalism.

7. Once You’re Deployed: Communication is Key

Effective communication keeps claims moving smoothly and ensures safety:

• Stay in Touch with AdStrat: Provide regular updates on location, claim progress, and any obstacles. Utilize the AdStrat storm office during larger events to stay in touch with the management team.

• Respond Promptly: Timely responses keep claim timelines on track and prevent bottlenecks.

• Be Accessible to Policyholders: Even if an immediate resolution isn’t possible, keep policyholders informed and reassured.

• Coordinate with Peers: Share knowledge, lodging options, and safety alerts to support the team.

Clear, consistent communication strengthens efficiency and trust across all parties involved.

8. Deployment Safety and Emergency Awareness

Your safety is critical:

• Know Emergency Locations: Identify nearby hospitals, police stations, and shelters.

• Plan Multiple Exit Routes: Be ready to evacuate areas if conditions deteriorate.

• Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay updated on storm developments and road closures.

• Follow Safety Protocols: Wear appropriate PPE, maintain situational awareness, and avoid hazardous areas.

Being safety-conscious protects you, your team, and the policyholders you serve.

Prepare for Success

Deployment success starts before you leave and continues until the last claim is closed. By packing smart, staying connected, keeping organized, and putting safety first, adjusters can meet the demands of storm season while providing policyholders with efficient, compassionate service.

At AdStrat, we believe preparedness and performance go hand in hand and our core values guide us every step of the way: We Are One Team, We Do the Right Thing, We Care, We Deliver, and We Welcome Everyone. Keep these front of mind, and you’ll not only be ready for deployment, but you’ll also make a real difference when it matters most. Together we make a difference.

Interested in joining our team and roster? Visit https://www.administrative-strategies.com/join-our-team