A song of water and fire: Key lessons from Hurricane Fiona and Nova Scotia wildfires

The Province of Nova Scotia has a broad range of responsibilities during provincial emergencies. Hurricane Fiona had significant impacts on citizens and government services for a considerable time due to widespread telecommunication and power outages. The spring wildfires caused widespread destruction, presented coordination and logistical problems, and resulted in mental health impacts for affected communities and responders. This paper describes the challenges faced by provincial emergency management and business continuity response teams: 1) mental health matters - the next evolution in business continuity requires building confidence in people executing the plan under stressful and uncertain conditions for extended periods; 2) senior leadership support is vital to balance business continuity priorities with ongoing operational business demands; and 3) the best plans are as effective as the relationships that make them work. The importance and value of individual and team relationships during planning, preparedness and response, therefore, cannot be underestimated.