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, arguing that the most important safety tools are not complicated systems but the small, consistent habits people practice every day. Drawing from decades of frontline work in undercover operations, intelligence, dive team leadership, and tactical response, Elsner says preparedness starts with awareness, calm thinking, and daily choices rather than technical solutions.
Recent studies reveal a growing gap between public expectations and personal readiness that makes Elsner's message particularly timely. One in three Canadians say they often feel unprepared in daily situations, while 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 experiences have shaped his approach to readiness. "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 continues to use a practice learned from tactical teams: quick, structured debriefs after major tasks to assess what worked, what didn't, and what should change. "Anyone can do that. It keeps you grounded," he notes.
Elsner encourages Canadians to adopt three practical habits to improve preparedness. First, pausing before making decisions, as "a few seconds of patience can prevent hours of damage control." Second, writing things down by hand, since 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," Elsner shares. Third, using short debriefs after stressful or important moments to strengthen future responses. These strategies improve clarity and reduce stress, especially in unpredictable situations.
To manage overwhelm, Elsner emphasizes having a personal "reset mechanism." For him, motorcycle riding forces full attention on the road, while for others it could be walking, cooking, or sitting quietly. "Silence is underrated," he adds. "It gives space for better judgment." His perspective is informed by years in environments where clear thinking was critical. More information about his background and approach can be found at 24-7PressRelease.com.
Elsner invites Canadians to choose one daily habit that improves readiness without special training. "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, addressing the human factors behind the readiness gap identified in recent studies.
