Mitigation symposium : towards a Canadian national mitigation strategy : summary of proceedings, January 1998.

Recent natural disasters in North America and their devastating impact require that we take action and reduce the spiraling costs of recovery. Canadian activities and legislation have focused on preparedness and response. As a result these components are well studied and developed, and many communities have successfully implemented effective programs. On the other hand, the components of recovery, especially reconstruction, and mitigation have not been fully developed. This is due in part to the perceived complexity, lack of process direction, and the overwhelming potential costs associated with recovery and mitigation. However, the participants believe that the impact of hazard can be significantly reduced by applying the knowledge we already have to the formulation of a national mitigation strategy. With such a strategy, we can save needless loss of property and lives