Wildfires have caused billions in losses over the last decade, yet many large commercial properties still have critical mitigation gaps. Why? Because loss control is often treated as a box to check—when it should be a proactive, operational-specific strategy to prevent catastrophe.
At ARU, loss control goes beyond data models and compliance. It relies on experts who understand risk from the ground up, applying data-driven judgment, deep industry knowledge, and boots-on-the-ground experience. While AI and automation have their place, they are no substitute for the niche expertise that professionals like Larry Medrano bring to the table.
Larry Medrano is a Field Inspector at ARU and exemplifies the technical acumen and Property expertise that we prioritize in our loss control approach. He has 12+ years of experience in wildfire risk mitigation, risk analysis, and all-risk incident management, and is frequently sought after to educate others at industry conferences.
Recognized Industry Expertise
Most recently, Larry was invited to speak at the ACA Conference in Dallas, where he led a session on “Wildfire Mitigation Best Practices: Backed by Science and Understood by the Insurance Industry.” His presentation focused on lessons learned from recent California wildfires and the common gaps large commercial properties face when mitigating wildfire risk in high-exposure areas. The discussion resonated with attendees, including camp owners and executives, sparking conversations about bridging loss control knowledge gaps. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and highlighted an interest in aligning insurance and loss control strategies with practical mitigation measures.
A significant point of interest was the availability of grant funding to support wildfire resilience efforts—an underutilized resource that could make mitigation more accessible for high-exposure properties. One of the most important insights from Larry’s session was the need to understand the "why" behind mitigation recommendations. Too often, loss control measures are viewed as compliance requirements rather than critical strategies backed by science and proven to reduce risk.
Larry Medrano, ARM, said, “At ACA, it was clear that many business owners want to do more to mitigate risk but don’t always know where to start. The least expensive loss—for all parties—is the one that never happens. By prioritizing proactive mitigation, ARU drives mutually beneficial outcomes, protecting policyholders and carrier partners while ensuring the long-term sustainability of its insurance products.”
Why Technical Expertise Matters in Loss Control
Mitigating risk isn’t just about identifying exposures; it’s about implementing solutions that reduce loss potential in meaningful ways. That requires more than automated models or standardized checklists; it demands the judgment of professionals with real-world experience who understand both the science behind risk and the practicality of mitigation measures. Experts like Larry Medrano are essential to this process. The ability to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and industry application is what allows ARU to implement sustainable risk management strategies that work in the field—not just on paper.
The stakes in loss control have never been higher. As weather events grow more severe, the industry must shift from reactive risk assessment to proactive mitigation. ARU remains committed to combining human expertise, advanced technology, and industry collaboration to provide solutions that keep businesses, properties, and communities protected. Because at the end of the day, loss control isn’t just about reducing risk—it’s about empowering those we serve with the knowledge and tools to manage it effectively.
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