Helping a Healthcare Facility Rebuild from the Ground Up After a Tornado

In this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, host Martha Lewis chats with Abby Whitaker, Oklahoma City Account Manager at BMS CAT, about the challenges and triumphs of restoration in the face of severe weather. Abby brings a wealth of hands-on experience from her nearly four years at BMS, transitioning from residential to commercial restoration. She reflects on the real-time pressures during storm season, emphasizing that "tornado season comes on fast" and that preparedness is key—even when weather alerts don't give adequate notice.

"tornado season comes on fast" and that preparedness is key—even when weather alerts don't give adequate notice.

Abby recounts a memorable incident during April 2023, when a tornado event in Shawnee, Oklahoma, left significant damage at a local facility. "We were able to get in before many business owners had even fully assessed the damage," Abby explains, highlighting how timely action can set the stage for effective recovery. With a focus on mitigating risk and protecting vital assets, she describes how BMS CAT steps in to assess the damage, communicate with stakeholders, and ensure that businesses receive rapid, coordinated support.

"We were able to get in before many business owners had even fully assessed the damage."
— Abby Whitaker, Oklahoma City Account Manager at BMS CAT

Additionally, Abby details how pre-planning and constant communication, including regular updates and an on-call list, provide clients with a sense of security during chaos. This episode offers valuable insights into crisis management, stressing the importance of being prepared and having trusted experts by your side.