Recognizing the unsung heroes of disasters

When hurricanes like Florence and Michael, tornadoes and wildfires leave behind a trail of devastation, there are a host of companies that come into affected areas after these disasters. They aren’t well-known celebrities and you won’t see their faces on television unless it’s part of a news story highlighting the rescue and restoration efforts underway. However, they are very much the unsung heroes of any disaster.

Insurance adjusters, cable and utility workers, restoration contractors, roofers, bulldozer and heavy equipment operators, fire and police responders, EMTs, FEMA inspectors, and volunteers from dozens of different agencies and organizations begin arriving as soon as authorities allow entry to the areas.

For those of you who have not ventured into a decimated area after a catastrophe, it can be overwhelming. There are no amenities such as electricity, running water, working ATMs, cell phone or internet service; debris blocks roads and buildings are destroyed. You can’t run to the local burger joint for lunch, your hotel is most likely two or three hours away from where you need to work, gasoline is at a premium because stations aren’t open or likely have run out of fuel, and getting around anywhere takes hours longer than usual.

Despite these challenges, men and women leave their families to provide or restore service to the infrastructure, search for missing individuals, remove debris, assess damage and assign coverage, and help residents start the restoration and rebuilding process. It is grueling and often thankless work. They face incredible challenges, enter dangerous areas, and encounter people who have lost everything and are literally shell-shocked.

Often these residents are angry and feel helpless. They are unhappy that they don’t have enough (or any) insurance coverage for their losses. Frequently they have unrealistic expectations and think nothing of taking their frustrations out on these responders. They are also vulnerable to unscrupulous individuals seeking to take advantage of others’ misfortunes.

To the companies, organizations and individuals who venture to these areas and follow best practices while operating with ethics and integrity, we salute and thank you. You are doing important work, and your time and talents matter to all of those impacted by catastrophic events.  Never doubt that you are making a difference. Each one of you represents the very best of humanity, and that is a legacy to be proud of every day. Thank you for being our heroes.