Natural disasters test security companies’ operational capabilities. Hurricane Milton in October 2024 demonstrated how Solaren Risk Management handles large-scale emergency deployments across state lines.
Florida clients needed armed security during evacuation periods when properties became vulnerable to looters. Empty buildings and minimal law enforcement presence created opportunities for theft and vandalism.
Bethany Gill, Chief of Operations, coordinated the response from Nashville headquarters. “We ended up taking a command center down there and we had multiple vehicles so we could patrol the properties,” she explained during a February 2025 interview.
Rapid Personnel Mobilization
The challenge came from gathering qualified personnel without depleting Nashville locations that still required security coverage. Solaren Risk Management solved this through targeted outreach.
Gill managed recruitment through social media posts and email campaigns seeking licensed security officers willing to deploy to Florida. Candidates needed current certifications and qualifications for armed security work.
“We would do outreach. We would basically say, if you have all the qualifying documents, we will onboard you and you can come with us down to this project for a certain price and all that kind of stuff per diems and all that,” Gill described.
Document review proved critical. Every applicant’s credentials underwent verification before approval. Solaren Risk Management maintains strict standards even during emergency mobilizations.
Logistics and Equipment
The deployment required significant equipment transportation. Multiple vehicles carried surveillance systems, communication equipment, and supplies necessary for extended operations in disaster zones.
A convoy approach solved transportation challenges. Personnel met at Solaren Risk Management headquarters in Mount Juliet before traveling together to Florida. This coordination ensured equipment arrived intact and teams remained organized.
Command center operations provided centralized coordination. Leadership maintained oversight of multiple property locations while managing communication between field teams and clients.
Supplementary Security Model
Florida clients already maintained security teams at protected properties. Solaren Risk Management provided supplementary armed security rather than replacing existing personnel.
This model offers advantages during emergencies. Local security staff understand property layouts and normal operations. Outside armed security adds deterrent capability without requiring extensive onboarding.
“They needed some added specifically armed security down there to help them out,” Gill explained. The arrangement worked so well that discussions began about Solaren Risk Management potentially assuming full security responsibilities for these properties in the future.
Client Satisfaction and Performance
The deployment succeeded despite challenging conditions. “The deployment was actually pretty smooth, and the client was very happy with our services down there,” Gill reported.
Staff members shared positive experiences despite hurricane conditions. Professional attitude and mission focus helped teams maintain morale during what could have been a stressful assignment.
Client satisfaction extended beyond immediate security results. Solaren Risk Management demonstrated reliability during crisis conditions, building trust for potential future contracts.
Lessons for Multi-State Operations
Hurricane Milton highlighted both capabilities and areas for improvement in out-of-state deployments. Communication systems worked well, with mobile-based platforms allowing field operations despite infrastructure challenges.
Document management required careful attention. Each state maintains different licensing requirements for armed security personnel. Solaren Risk Management tracked qualifications across jurisdictions to ensure compliance.
The experience reinforced the value of comprehensive training programs. Officers trained in emergency preparedness and disaster response adapted quickly to unfamiliar environments. Gill noted that supervisors excelled at disseminating information and maintaining operational standards despite deployment stress.
National Response Capabilities
Solaren Risk Management positions itself as a national response provider capable of immediate deployment for disaster security needs. Different geographic regions experience different weather threats, requiring teams familiar with hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires.
The company maintains relationships with security professionals across multiple states. This network enables rapid mobilization when clients face emergency situations beyond their normal security capacity.
Weather monitoring integration helps anticipate deployment needs. Security teams access the same notification systems as emergency responders, allowing proactive positioning before disasters strike.
Business Development Through Crisis Response
Emergency deployments serve dual purposes for Solaren Risk Management. Immediate security needs get met while the company demonstrates capabilities to potential long-term clients.
The Florida properties secured during Hurricane Milton represent potential future contracts. Clients who experienced Solaren Risk Management’s professionalism during crisis conditions often consider expanded relationships for routine security needs.
This approach aligns with Jack Byrd’s entrepreneurial vision for company growth. Rather than pursuing traditional marketing, exceptional performance during high-stakes situations builds reputation and generates referrals.
Preparing for Future Disasters
Climate change increases natural disaster frequency and intensity. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted 17-25 named storms for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, with 4-7 potentially becoming major hurricanes.
Solaren Risk Management adapted operational plans based on Hurricane Milton lessons. Emergency deployment protocols now include refined communication procedures, equipment checklists, and staffing models tested under real conditions.
The company continues developing relationships with property management firms and corporate clients in disaster-prone regions. Advance planning allows faster response when emergencies occur.
Technology in Disaster Response
Mobile surveillance systems prove particularly valuable during disaster deployments. LiveView Technologies trailers operate on solar power, maintaining functionality even when electrical infrastructure fails.
These systems supplement armed security personnel by providing 24/7 monitoring of extensive property perimeters. AI-powered detection alerts security teams to intrusions while recording evidence for law enforcement.
Communication redundancy ensures operational continuity. Solaren Risk Management uses mobile-based phone systems and multiple radio channels, preventing single points of failure in communication networks.
Community Service Mission
Disaster response aligns with Solaren Risk Management’s community service values. The company’s motto “We are safety aware because we care” reflects genuine commitment to protecting people and property during vulnerable times.
Officers deployed to Hurricane Milton areas came from communities that could face similar disasters. Professional satisfaction comes from helping others during crisis periods while demonstrating security industry capabilities.
Solaren on X and other social media channels document the company’s community involvement and disaster response work. These platforms showcase capabilities to potential clients while building public trust.
Industry Recognition
Successful disaster response builds credibility within the security industry. Other companies observe how Solaren Risk Management handles large-scale mobilizations and emergency conditions.
Client reviews increasingly mention the company’s disaster response capabilities. Officers appreciate opportunities to work challenging assignments that demonstrate their training and professionalism.
Professional connections within the security industry take note of companies that perform well during high-profile deployments. This recognition generates business development opportunities and partnership inquiries.
Hurricane Milton proved Solaren Risk Management possesses operational capabilities, trained personnel, and leadership necessary for effective disaster security response. The experience positioned the company for future growth while serving clients during critical need periods.
