The Alberta Floods that started on 19 June 2013 and the Lac-Mégantic train derailment of 6 July 2013 are two tragic incidents that have changed the complexity of emergency management in Canada. In this presentation, delegates will be provided with visual perspectives and information sharing on what took place, what was learned, what has changed and how all of these questions affect the community resiliency and necessary legislative advancements.

Alberta Floods 2013

In the days leading up to 19 June 2013, Albertareceived heavy rainfall that triggered catastrophic flooding described by the provincial government as the worst in Alberta’s history. Areas affected included all of the major rivers and tributaries. A total of 32 local declarations of states of emergency were declared and 28 emergency operation centres were activated as water levels rose and communities were under evacuation orders. Five people were confirmed dead as a direct result of the flooding and over 100,000 people were displaced throughout the region. Some 2200 Canadian troops were deployed to assist in flooded areas and total damage estimates exceed $5 billion for insurable damages. Receding waters gave way to a mammoth clean-up of affected areas, aided by a spontaneous volunteer campaign in which many home owners were assisted by complete strangers. In particular, a perspective of Calgary, Alberta, towards lessons learned, community resolve, and leadership will be provided.

Lac-Mégantic train derailment

On 6 July 2013, an unattended 74-car freight train carrying crude oil rolled downhill and derailed, resulting in the fire and explosion of multiple tank cars. Forty-seven people were killed and more than 30 buildings were destroyed in LacMégantic, Quebec, a town of approximately 6000 people. In this small community, the emergency services were completely overwhelmed and this was the deadliest rail accident in Canada’s history since 1864. Delegates will receive information on local impact, resolve of mutual aid and automatic aid within the emergency services community, and the changes to industry and legislation after a tragedy of this magnitude. Specific reference will be provided in relation to the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs' role in strategic advisory and task force representation in helping propel public safety with respect to the transportation of dangerous goods. Ways forward include stakeholder engagement and trying to ensure that history does not become the future after a tragic event.