As the fall out is being assessed from this year’s major wildland fires on the U.S. west coast and in the Canadian context, the most costly disaster in Canadian history “the Fort McMurray Fire” risk assessors and public policy analysts are re-considering our planning and preparedness models. Wildfire incidents in North America are increasing in…
As we start this years Olympics and millions of people converge on Rio, the publicity machine is starting its usual move into overdrive-both negative and positive. Already the media doom mongers are running stories (and have been for some time) that it will be a disaster and that Brazil isn’t ready for the Games. Turn…
When was the last time you looked at your security from a hostile’s perspective? Have you ever? The majority of hostiles go through an online reconnaissance of their targets before they attack. In fact, many will review various targets online first to see what they can obtain in terms of security at those locations. If…
Does your organization have a workplace violence policy? Are there procedures to follow? Has your organization conducted an active shooter or other violent intruder drills or exercises? Are your staff and other key stakeholders prepared for such an attack? How would your staff respond and how would you manage the event? Answers to the above…
According to Wikipedia, Hurricane Sandy (unofficially known as “Superstorm Sandy”) was the deadliest and most destructive hurricane of the 2012 Atlantic hurricane season, and the second-costliest hurricane in United States history. The importance of preparing for hurricanes can’t be overstated. Families, individuals as well as businesses and government and none government entities need to have…
Guest Blogger: Deb Hileman, CMP, President and CEO, Institute for Crisis Management The 2016 Atlantic hurricane season forecast calls for the number of named storms and hurricanes to be near historical averages, with a total of 12 named storms, five hurricanes and two major hurricanes are expected this season. Pacific hurricane season forecasts also call…
How does your organization prepare for hurricane season? It’s almost hurricane season in the US and many communities, businesses, and property owners are starting to prepare. Knowing your surroundings and talking to the local emergency management agency to find out the hurricane risks can be a good place to start your planning. Are you…
From Zombies to lethal viruses, Hollywood loves making doomsday films about something deadly spreading around the world at an alarming rate that kills everyone. Wolfgang Petersen’s 1995 movie “Outbreak” brought pandemic’s to the big screen; alerting the masses as to just how fast an invisible threat can spread across our tiny planet. One of my…
I managed to leave the British Army without too many scars. Throughout my 13 years in the military, I was able to craft many skills that made me a better soldier as well as a leader. In this article, I discuss five leadership lessons that the military taught me. 1. Lead From The Front…
When an incident happens it is essential that the top management of an organization establish, define and document their policy for crisis management, which includes clear directions and expectations. Related: How to Build a Strong Crisis Management Foundation It includes a statement of intent that clearly and concisely outlines their objectives, describes in broad terms how…