Fireman’s Fund Introduces Text Messaging Alerts

The company, which also released a mobile claims application, will text policyholders updates during disasters.

Novato, Calif.-based Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company has launched a text messaging service that sends updates and alerts to policyholders during disasters. Members and agents can go to www.facebook.com/disasterinfo and click on “Mobile Services.” There, they locate one of several of 11 regions for which they want alerts on a map of the United States, and text the associated keyword or keywords to a signup number.

“A single, short message can point a homeowner to emergency services, online resources, and even help them to file a claim faster,” Bill Dalton, claims director for Fireman’s Fund, says in a statement. “Communicating quickly and frequently with our policyholders and agents is crucial during a disaster.

The insurer has also introduced a free claim reporting application for iPhone and Android phones. The app features:

Policy, property and vehicle information
Automated e-mail responses verifying a claim report was received.
GPS-enabled locator of emergency services such as tow trucks, rental cars, and water and fire damage restoration companies.
The ability to take pictures of the accident or loss and attach them to the report.

Nathan Golia is senior editor of Insurance & Technology. He joined the publication in 2010 as associate editor and covers all aspects of the nexus between insurance and information technology, including mobility, distribution, core systems, customer interaction, and risk ... View Full Bio