In preparation for the onslaught of Hurricane Michael, Interstate Restoration has begun to add critical resources in the north Florida area.

The storm is due to hit Florida’s panhandle and the northern part of the state late tonight, with full effect by tomorrow morning. The resources include labor and trailers full of recovery equipment such as dehumidifiers, generators and desiccant air driers. Interstate has strategically positioned itself in the staging area most conducive to serving clients with the greatest amount of efficiency.

Interstate still has crews immersed in the recovery and restoration efforts connected with the recent Hurricane Florence in North Carolina. That work will continue, even while Interstate offers aid to clients in Florida, said Stacy Mazur, chief executive officer of Interstate. Click here to watch a video interview with Mazur and R&R on mobilizing during hurricane season. 

“Last year’s series of deadly hurricanes (Harvey, Irma and Maria) fueled our response capabilities and set the precedent for the kind of efficiency our clients expect and deserve,” Mazur said.

The most strategic location for a staging area will probably be to the west side of the storm, he said.  When deciding on a response location, Interstate always considers the safety of its workers, along with the quickest access to afflicted areas.

“We have been calling clients to update them on our activities and to make sure they have as much information as possible about the storm developments,” said Fred Craprotta, regional manager for Interstate in Florida.

Businesses that establish disaster plans ahead of a storm tend to recovery more quickly, with less impact, he said. For most of Interstate’s clients, that planning typically begins months – and sometimes years -- in advance, giving all entities a post-event advantage in recovery efforts.

Interstate encourages all businesses and residents in the area to take every precaution to ensure safety and to help maintain building integrity. Interstate offers numerous tips on its website, www.InterstateRestoration.com.