BOWDA - May Luncheon - Risk Preparedness - May 9, 2024

Risk Mitigation and Preparedness - Incorporating Best Practices in Preparing for Catastrophic Events

Designing for the disaster: risk mitigation, recovery, crisis management, business continuity in the face of increasing frequency of hazards.

We will hear from a FireSmart expert, a developer who's community is designed around FireSmart best-practices and the Town of Canmore's Manager of Protective Services and Director of Emergency Management and an insurance professional.

The panel will address the following questions and the an audience Q&A.

1. How do we best prepare for and design for the next major event (flood, fire, etc.)?
2. What can businesses due to ensure continuity and interruption preparation?
3. How will major events impact where we develop, how will this impact lending and insurance for projects?
4. What is your top tip for businesses out there?

Caitlin Miller is the Manager of Protective Services and Director of Emergency Management for the Town of Canmore. Caitlin has a Masters of Public Safety with a specialization in Emergency Management from Wilfrid Laurier University and has combined her education, experience working in other municipalities, and local knowledge of the area to enhance Canmore’s emergency management program. 
 

VDM Fire Inc. focuses on wildfire consulting. Scott VanderMeer (owner of VDM Fire Inc) has been collaborating with the developer of the Exshaw Mountain Gateway project on behalf of FireSmart Canada with the goal of integrating FireSmart Development Best Practices into the architectural and landscape guidelines set out by the developer. This proactive approach to FireSmart has led to the discussion about a possible FireSmart recogni5on program on a national scale. Scott VanderMeer has been involved in numerous FireSmart projects and continues to be an active member on FireSmart Canada’s Technical Commitee and FireSmart Canada’s Program Implementation Working Group. While continuing as an active member of the Calgary Fire Department, Scott combines his structural fire knowledge, along with former wildfire experience to provide advice on wildland urban interface education and mitigation.

Marlo Reid-Gibson, CFP, Associate Financial Advisor is  a partner in Moir Insurance Services Representing the Co-operators in Canmore. She has 25 years of experience in the insurance industry and brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table. Her comprehensive services encompass home, business, life insurance and wealth planning, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Specializing in small businesses, is dedicated to providing personalized solutions and advice in an ever-changing landscape. She is proud to call the Bow Valley home, and enjoy all the fun things this beautiful place has to offer when she is not behind her desk.