Hail season is here for some and approaching for many. Hail can occur in any season, but different regions of the United States experience hail at different times of the year. Hail season begins in March for many southern states and May for northern states. The region where Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming meet is known as Hail Alley. It tops the list as the most common area for hailstorms.

Hailstones are formed when raindrops are carried upward by thunderstorm updrafts into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere and freeze, according to NOAA. The storm then grows colliding with liquid water drops that freeze onto hailstones. The hail falls when the thunderstorm’s updraft can no longer support the weight of the hailstone and is pulled to the earth by gravity. High winds can cause hail to fall at an angle or even sideways, causing damage to the siding of homes, broken windows and causing injury to people and animals.

Hail can range in size. Most hailstorms are made up of a mix of sizes. Hail size is often estimated by comparing it to known objects. Below is a list of common hail sizes.

• Pea = 1/4 inch diameter
• Mothball = 1/2 inch diameter
• Penny = ¾ inch diameter
• Nickel = 7/8 inch
• Quarter = 1 inch — hail quarter size or larger is considered severe
• Ping-Pong Ball = 1 1/2 inch
• Golf Ball = 1 3/4 inches
• Tennis Ball = 2 1/2 inches
• Baseball = 2 3/4 inches
• Teacup = 3 inches
• Softball = 4 inches
• Grapefruit = 4 1/2 inches

The largest hailstone recovered in the U.S. fell in Vivian, South Dakota, on June 23, 2010. It measured with a diameter of 8 inches ad a circumference of 18.62 inches, weighing 1 lb 15 oz.

In 2019, Texas experienced 872 hailstorms, documented by the NOAA’s National Weather Services. In Texas, hail season lasts from March until May, with May being the most active. In 2019 South Texas saw golf-ball-sized hail causing $1.4 billions in damages.

Ladders are a very important tool for field adjusters, but if not used properly, they can become very dangerous. Understanding ways to stay safe on a ladder is crucial to all individuals using a ladder. In order to increase awareness of ladder safety, March has been dedicated as Ladder Safety Month.

The goals of Ladder Safety Month are to:

• Decrease the number of ladder-related injuries and fatalities.
• Increase awareness about ladder safety.
• Increase the number of companies and individuals educating their employees about ladder safety.

Below are some basic requirements created by OSHA, designed to ensure safety on a ladder:

Angles: A non-self-supporting ladder, which is meant to lean against another support, is to be positioned at an angle. This is the 4-1 rule: the base of your ladder should extend 1 foot for every 4 feet of height between the working surface and the point of contact. When done correctly, the ladder will meet the ground at a 75-degree angle.

Stability: Your ladder needs to be level to maximize safety. Ladder rungs, cleats, or steps must be parallel and level when the ladder is in position for use. Inspect the working surface to determine that it is free of debris that could affect your ladder’s stability.

Slipping: Ladders are to be kept free of oils, grease, and other slipping hazards.

Many factors can contribute to falling off a ladder. These factors include sudden movement, lack of attention, worn or damaged ladder, and more.  It is important to follow safety protocols when using a ladder for your inspections. For more information regarding Ladder Safety Month and training visit National Ladder Safety Month

Why is networking important as an independent insurance adjuster?

A difficult part of being an independent adjuster, for both established and new adjusters, is generating leads and connections with IA firms. Having a strong network and connection with people in this industry can open doors in your career that would have stayed closed otherwise. Deployment and claim opportunities can come as a result of knowing somebody and getting your foot in the door with IA firms. Do not overlook this important step as it can help increase the claims available to you.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, networking is described as the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment of business.

Networking builds relationships. Having good working relationships within the industry helps improve your work ethic as well as the amount of work you receive. Networking gives you the opportunity to get in front of an IA firm. This will help establish a relationship that could benefit you, and hopefully put you on their radar, leading to more work opportunities.

Establish yourself as a part of the independent adjuster community. It is very important to network with other adjusters. Get to know other independent adjusters through Facebook, LinkedIn or in the field. Creating positive relationships with other independent adjusters and IA firms is an effective way to find more work opportunities.

To gain work in this industry people need to know and trust you. You can work on both of these by networking.

There are many ways to network with adjusters in your community and adjusters across the nation. Starting local, join your local claims association chapter. This is a great place to meet other adjusters and professionals in this field. To access a list of chapters, visit: Claims Associations – Insurance Claims Tools & Databases (claimspages.com)

To network with adjusters on a larger scale, join Facebook groups. In these groups’ adjuster chat with each other, IA firms post about training opportunities and hiring new adjusters, plus so much more. Some great groups to join to get you started are Independent Adjuster Network, Adjuster Central, New Adjusters, Adjusting Professionals.

How do I network with Compass Adjusting Services? A great way to network with Compass is to sign up and participate in our virtual recruiting event that will be held on February 24^th & 25^th, 2021. During this event you will be able to sign up for a 15-minute video call with one of our recruiters or managers to discuss your work history and your future with Compass Adjusting Services. Sign up today: https://bit.ly/3ppGY6A

Compass Adjusting Services is hosting a completely virtual career fair: Connect with Compass. We are looking to grow our team of desk adjusters, field adjusters and file reviewers. Enjoy 15 minutes of a video interview with one of our managers or recruiters.

About Compass:

We are a privately owned National Independent Adjusting Firm. We specialize in all types of property claims – both personal and commercial lines as well as CAT and Daily losses. Compass’s main office is in Fort Worth, Texas, with regional offices located throughout the United States. We are committed to providing prompt, superior claims handling, as well as focus on the needs of our clients and employees. Here at Compass, we pride ourselves in being industry leaders in customer service, innovation, and growth by attracting and providing the best quality adjusters, administration, examiners, and managers, thus creating the most trusted claims handling company in the Industry.

Connect with Compass – What to Expect:

Connect with Compass is our first ever virtual career fair, February 24^th – 25^th, 2021. Due to COVID-19, we are moving from in person conferences and interviews to a virtual career fair where you can interview and network with Compass from the comfort of your own home. If you are an experienced desk adjuster, field adjuster or file reviewer… this is the event for you. We handle claims all over the nation and are looking to grow our Compass team. We want to get to know new adjusters and adjusters already on our roster.

This event will consist of a 15-minute video interview with one of our managers or recruiters.

Jason Scheel – Field Manager

Zane Donaho – Field Manager

Toby Talley – Field Manager

Avery Kenney – Recruiter

Justun Vickers – Recruiter

Kristi Talley – Examiner Manager

Brian Whitten – Operations Manager

During this interview we will discuss your desired position, work history, experiences, give you a background on Compass and get to know you.  After your interview time is over, we will be in contact about potential future work with Compass Adjusting Services.

To sign up please visit: Connect with Compass Signup. A link to sign up for a time will be provided to your email on a future date.

Please email conference@compassadjusters.com with any questions you may have.  

                        Thank you for your interest in working with Compass!

Connect with Compass: A virtual career fair with our managers and recruiting staff. Join us, February 24^th – 25^th, in 15 minute one on one interviews to get to know you and your work experience. Below is detailed instructions on how to sign up for Connect with Compass.

1. Click our standby list link: Connect with Compass Sign Up List

• If you already have a Compass Connect profile, use the link to join the standby list.
• If not, see step 2.

2. Create a Compass Connect profile. You must register on our roster in order to join our Connect with Compass standby list.

• To create a profile, upload your personal information, professional skills, licenses, certifications and a resume. Once this is complete you will click the acknowledgment box in the right-hand corner. You will then receive an email that has activation details to activate your account.

3. Now you have a Compass profile, it is time to join the Connect with Compass list.

• To join the list, move over to the task bar and click on “Standby Lists” you will then see the Connect with Compass list.
• Click on the list and follow the instructions to sign up.

4. After you have signed up, a link to selecting your time slot will be provided at a future date.

We look forward to connecting with you!

Click the link below to access the December 2020 issue of Compass Connection:

Compass Connection December 2020 Issue

It is exciting to think 2020 is almost over, and many are looking forward to ringing in the new year. But just because 2021 is here doesn’t mean COVID-19 has disappeared. It is still important to keep in mind the practices and measures that were taken in 2020 to stay safe in 2021… especially on New Years Eve. Many people will be foregoing the typical New Years Eve parties, champagne flute clinking and counting down the seconds to the new year with friends and strangers. COVID-19 has caused these traditions to become dangerous and nearly impossible, but there are still some ways you can ring in the new year safely… you do not have to let COVID burst your bubbles. It is time to get creative. If done right, these fun ways to spend New Year’s Eve can save your favorite holiday.

For those looking to say a quick hello and goodbye this New Year’s Eve: host a countdown and toast to the new year via zoom. Don’t want to ring in the New Year alone? Invite your friends or family to join you in counting down the seconds till 2021! If you do not want to be stuck on a long call with family, invite them to spend the last few minutes of 2020 and the first few minutes of 2021 with you. This is an easy way to be in bed by 12:05.

If you are looking for the party scene this New Year’s Eve, try a game night (virtual or with your quarantine crew). Leave the massive parties behind and enjoy time with friends. What better way to ring in the new year than playing games and being with friends?

Plan a movie night. If you are wanting a low-key New Year’s Eve, have a movie night with your significant others. Pop some champagne and relax in your pjs. A fun way to ring in the new year is with your favorite movie character. Enjoy Forest Gump? If you start Forest Gump at exactly 10:38.57, you can ring in the new year with Lieutenant Dan. A Great Gatsby fan? If you start watching the Great Gatsby at 11:29:57pm on December 31st, 2020, Gatsby will toast you into 2021.

Night owls? Just because COVID has taken away bars and clubs doesn’t mean you can’t dance the night away. Create a New Year’s playlist for you and your friends or family. Encourage your guests to dress to the nines (in person or via zoom). We all know everyone is dying to dress up after having no where to go all year.

Here are a few songs that are great for when the clock strikes midnight.

• If you play ‘In The Air Tonight’ by Phil Collins on December 31st at 11:56:40 the drum break will play right as the clock strikes midnight.
• If you play “The Best” by Tina Turner on December 31st at 11:58:57, Tina will say “You’re simply the best!” at exactly midnight.
• If you play “Hey Ya” by Outkast at 11:57:35 on New Year’s Eve, your 2021 is gonna be alright alright alright alright alright alright alright
• “Don’t Stop Believin” by Journey. This song will encourage you that things will be better in 2021… we hope.
• If you play “Feeling Myself” by Nicki Minaj and Beyoncé at exactly 11:58:50 pm on New Year’s Eve, Beyoncé will say “World Stop” in 2020 and “Carry On” in 2021!

Although this New Year’s celebration may look and feel different than years past, doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the ending of 2020. Be safe, smart and enjoy 2021!

Happy New Year!!!

For most people, working from home has become the new normal… especially for desk adjusters. This style of work has grown in popularity due to COVID-19. It sounds ideal, no commute, staying in your pajamas and being home all day… but that does not mean it is as easy and fun as everyone thinks. It can be hard to stay productive. How do you stay productive when your kids are home running around, the TV is blaring in the background or you have a pile of dishes waiting to be cleaned? Below are some tips to help you reduce distractions and stay focused at home.

1. Keep your workspace clutter free. Your house is filled with tons of things, book, paper, personal items, etc. It is important to keep your workstation clear of those things.
2. Have a separate space for work and personal space. Blending your spaces is not a good way to stay productive. Watching TV or streaming your favorite show decreases your productivity while working. It can also be hard to leave your workday behind when your office is your bedroom.
3. Get dressed for the day. It can be very tempting to spend the day in your pajamas but this not healthy for your mind or your productivity. Take some time to get dressed. It does not have to be as nice as when you would be in a meeting but changing your clothes can help your mindset be work focused.
4. Take breaks. It is important to take a 15-minute break every 75-90 minutes. Avoid screens during your breaks. Get some fresh air, stretch, or grab a glass of water. Many people become much more productive when they walk away for a few minutes.
5. Create a workable schedule. Working from home comes with a flexible schedule. You may be able to take a few breaks to complete an emergency task, but it is important to stick to a schedule. Try to stick to the 8 to 5 workday. This will help boost productivity.

1. It is important to know when to shut down for the day. Just because you are working from home does not mean you work all hours of the day. You need to know when to stop working. In a normal office setting once 5 o’clock hits, many people will shut down and go home… but now most people are home all day. Set boundaries for yourself and log off once the workday is complete.
2. Make sure you have the proper tools. This might come without saying, but make sure you have Wi-Fi and internet connection. Talk to your employer before you begin working from home and ensure you have all the equipment necessary to complete your job: laptop, pass codes, instructions, and other important tools. This is crucial to be successful when working from home.
3. Plan social interactions. You may love working in solitude all day every day, but for some it can be very isolating. If you are missing social interactions with coworkers, try to schedule some time to connect with friends/coworkers outside of your family. Schedule zoom happy hours, video chats with friends or meet a coworker/friend for lunch.
4. Listen to music. Create some non-distracting background noise. Either play music out loud on a speaker or wear earphones. Many types of music can make working from home more enjoyable and help boost your productivity.
5. Have a good chair. This may seem unimportant compared to the other tips, but it is crucial. No one wants to sit for 8 hours a day in a chair that is uncomfortable or that can cause bad posture. Invest in a chair that will make working from home comfortable.

Working from home seems to be the new normal for most and it may last longer than you think. Invest in yourself by following these tips to help you stay more productive while being stuck at home.

Earthquakes are a common occurrence, especially in places that are vulnerable, such as California, Nevada, Alaska, Hawaii, and many other Western states. Earthquakes in California are a geologic inevitability. The state straddles the North American and Pacific tectonic plates and is crossed by active fault lines, including San Andreas. There have been over 11,000 earthquakes in California this year, none of which were major. Many Californians can account to experiencing an earthquake, but most have never experienced a strong one. Below explains the Earthquake Magnitude Scale.

But no matter where in the US you are, seismic activity is possible. According to Merriam-Webster, seismic activity is relating to an earth vibration caused by something else; having a strong or widespread impact: earthshaking. Natural disasters are frightening, but earthquakes give little to no warning, making them unique. It is important to know to prepare for an earthquake, what to do during an earthquake and what to do after the shaking is done. Below are a few safety tips for before, during and after an earthquake.

BEFORE

• Practice dropping down and taking cover so that it comes naturally to you when there is an earthquake.
• Invest in an earthquake kit. This can be home-made or professionally made. You do not know how long you could be stuck in one place. Pack the kit with essentials: food, water, bandages, a flashlight, blankets, and other personal items.
• Secure heavy items, such as bookshelves, mirrors, light fixtures, etc. Anything that could fall over during an earthquake and injure a person is a hazard.

DURING

• Grab your earthquake emergency ready kit.
• Perform drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to the ground or under a table or desk. Protect yourself by dropping to the ground and covering your head/other important parts of your body. This will help protect you from falling debris or furniture.
• Keep clear of windows – the glass may shatter from the shaking.
• If you are in a car, pull over to a spot clear of trees, powerlines, and buildings. Stay in your car until the shaking stops.
• If you are in a building, take the stairs, do not get in an elevator.

AFTER

• Once the shaking has stopped, leave the building and retreat to an open space, free of falling objects.
• Prepare for aftershocks, which can occur hours, days, weeks or months later after the initial earthquake. These are generally never as strong as the main earthquake, but they can still cause damage to buildings damaged by the initial earthquake.
• Check your property. Your home/building may have been damaged from the earthquake. Document the damage by taking pictures before you start cleaning up.
• Contact your insurance agent to submit a claim.

For more in depth earthquake safety information, visit: California Earthquake Authority