Frank Elsner, Chief of Safety and Security for the Natural Factors Group of Companies, is calling for increased public focus on personal preparedness and mental readiness. Drawing from decades of frontline work, leadership roles, and experience in high-pressure environments, Elsner says the most important safety tools are not complicated systems—but the small, consistent habits people practice every day. "Most risks show signs long before they become emergencies," Elsner says. "Preparedness starts with awareness, calm thinking, and the daily choices we make."
Recent studies show a growing gap between public expectations and personal readiness: One in three Canadians say they often feel unprepared in daily situations. 76% report difficulty focusing due to stress, digital overload, or fatigue. Workplaces have seen a 22% rise in preventable incidents linked to communication breakdowns and rushed decisions. "These aren't technical issues—they're human issues," Elsner explains. "Small habits can make a big difference."
Elsner's career includes undercover work, intelligence operations, dive team leadership, tactical response assignments, and senior roles in organizational safety. He says those experiences shaped how he thinks about readiness today. "When I worked undercover, the smallest shift in tone or movement could change the whole situation," he says. "Awareness isn't paranoia. It's paying attention with purpose." He also continues to use a practice he learned from tactical teams: quick, structured debriefs. "After every major task, I take a minute to ask, 'What worked? What didn't? What should I change?' Anyone can do that. It keeps you grounded."
Elsner encourages individuals, families, and workplaces to focus on simple, repeatable habits: Pause before making decisions. "A few seconds of patience can prevent hours of damage control," he says. Write things down by hand. Studies show handwriting improves information retention by 20–30%. "When I returned to university as a mature student, handwriting forced me to slow down and absorb ideas." Use short debriefs after stressful or important moments. "A quick look back strengthens your next step forward." These personal strategies, he notes, improve clarity and reduce stress—especially in unpredictable situations.
Elsner also shares the importance of having a personal "reset mechanism." "When I feel overwhelmed, I get on my motorcycle," he says. "It forces full attention on the road. For others, it could be walking, cooking, or just sitting quietly for a minute." His belief in the value of calm reflection comes from years of working in environments where clear thinking mattered. "Silence is underrated," he adds. "It gives space for better judgment."
Elsner invites Canadians to choose one daily habit that improves their own readiness—no special training required. "Preparedness isn't about fear," he says. "It's about presence. When we slow down, stay aware, and check in with ourselves, we strengthen our families, workplaces, and communities." He encourages workplaces, schools, and community groups to make conversations about awareness and decision-making part of their culture. For more information, visit https://www.naturalfactors.com.
