Ask the Expert

Catastrophe Panel – Back to the Basics Part 2

Catastrophe Preparedness: Building Relationships with Your Community and Beyond

In this episode of Ask The Expert, our panel of experts dive into the key strategies that help enhance community education and engagement before disasters strike. The panel also explores how you can build trust and participation in preparedness programs, the critical role restoration professionals play in emergency response and effective collaboration with local emergency services.

Meet Our Panel of Experts:

Ryan Giger: VP of Sales and Marketing at Vital Solutions, a leader in restoration contracting and chemical innovation with 25 years of industry expertise.
Darren Hudema: Director of Training and Technical Services at PuroClean and IICRC Board Member, a respected educator with 48 years of experience in restoration and technical training.
John Reasoner: Director of Catastrophe Services at Paul Davis Restoration, who has built a career in roofing and large-scale disaster recovery.
Barry Rice: Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Director at Signal Restoration, a Certified Safety Professional with deep expertise in disaster restoration and workplace safety.

In Case You Missed It

This is the second part of our Catastrophe Panel — Back to Basics episode in April. Click here to watch part 1.

Topics we covered:

Community Education and Engagement
- How do you ensure that community members are informed and prepared before a disaster strikes?
- What methods have proven most effective in building trust and participation in disaster preparedness programs?
Role of Restoration Professionals in Emergency Response
- What unique skills do restoration professionals bring to the initial response phase of a disaster?
- How can restoration teams integrate more effectively with first responders during emergencies?
Collaboration with Local Emergency Services
- What strategies have helped build strong partnerships with local fire, police, and EMS teams?
- How do you coordinate communication and responsibilities during a multi-agency disaster response?

On the Go?

Listen to the audio version of our conversation!

KEYWORDS: disaster preparedness disaster response

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Kayla McGowan is the Editor-in-Chief of R&R Magazine, with 10 years of experience in marketing and communications in the restoration and cleaning industry. She leads the editorial strategy for R&R and The Experience Events, creating content that informs and connects industry professionals.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She serves as Co-Chair on the RIA’s Marketing Committee.

Kayla is a Microbial Warrior®, a Certified Forensic Operator® and a High Risk/ High Level Decontamination Specialist™. Kayla is passionate about elevating the industry, is a food lover, enjoys spending time with her family, and embracing the outdoors.