April 2025
bank accounts. Both Vasquez and Erickson emphasized that the technology exists to prevent this but needs to be actively implemented and monitored.
Infrared Scans: Finding Fire Before It Starts
In one of the session’s most practical takeaways, Justin Hegsted shared his company’s experience with a third-party inspection that used infrared scanners to detect hot spots in motors, panels, and wiring before they develop into full-blown fires. “They went around our facility and found areas needing extra maintenance,” Hegsted said. “I’d recommend this to everyone.”
Briscoe agreed. “Annual infrared scanning should be a must. It’s a simple, effective way to spot trouble early — especially with older or high-use equipment.”
He also recommended retrofitting fire suppression systems over major machinery. After its fire, Oak Creek did just that, retrofitting critical machinery with fire suppression systems and turning over mulch regularly to prevent heat buildup — another proactive step they’ve taken post-fire.
Communication is Everything
When disaster hits, silence can sow panic. Oak Creek’s transparency in the hours following their fire helped maintain customer trust. “The fire was newsworthy,” Villasenor said. “People were anxious. We sent out a customer-wide email first thing Monday morning.”
Employees were also personally contacted, reassured about job security, and in some cases assigned to help with the cleanup effort. “We had to get creative,” Erickson said. “We couldn’t afford to wait for the insurance
money. So we kept everyone working — just in a different role.
“Hope is not a strategy,” Villasenor said at the end of the session. “Plan ahead. Pray it never happens — but be ready for it if it does.”
Training and Leadership Continuity
Another under-discussed topic was leadership succession. What happens if a business owner or key executive is suddenly incapacitated?
Meeks and Briscoe stressed the importance of documenting roles, signing authority, and emergency leadership plans. Family-run businesses are especially vulnerable to confusion and power struggles.
“Hope is not a strategy,” Villasenor said at the end of the session. “Plan ahead. Pray it never happens — but be ready for it if it does.”
“Preparation is key,” added Briscoe. “You don’t want to be planning during a crisis. You want to be executing a plan you already made.”
For members who couldn’t attend, WPA will distribute the session recording, disaster planning guide, and 14-point checklist via the Member Hub. The resource library will also include fire safety tools, emergency communication tips, and external links such as PLM’s Loss Control Resources. WPM