Natural disasters are complex challenges that require a coordinated response from multiple levels of government and individuals.

Government Roles and Responsibilities

Federal Government

• Pre-disaster:
  • Develops national disaster policies and guidelines.
  • Provides funding for disaster preparedness, mitigation, and recovery efforts.
  • Coordinates national response and recovery efforts.
  • Conducts research and develops technologies for disaster management.
• During a disaster:
  • Provides federal resources and personnel to support state and local efforts.
  • Coordinates interagency response and recovery activities.
  • Offers disaster relief assistance to affected individuals and communities.
• Post-disaster:
  • Provides long-term recovery assistance and support.
  • Helps communities rebuild and recover from the disaster.
  • Evaluates disaster response and recovery efforts to improve future preparedness.

State Government

• Pre-disaster:
  • Develops state-specific disaster plans and policies.
  • Coordinates disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts across the state.
  • Manages state emergency operations centers.
  • Establishes relationships with federal, local, and private sector partners.
• During a disaster:
  • Activates state emergency operations centers.
  • Coordinates state response and recovery efforts.
  • Requests federal assistance as needed.
  • Provides support to local governments.
• Post-disaster:
  • Oversees long-term recovery efforts.
  • Works with federal government to distribute disaster relief funds.
  • Evaluates state response and recovery efforts.

Local Government

• Pre-disaster:
• Develops local emergency plans and conducts preparedness exercises.
• Identifies and assesses local hazards.
• Builds community resilience.
• Establishes emergency communication systems.
• During a disaster:
• Implements local emergency plans.
• Coordinates local response and recovery efforts.
• Provides immediate assistance to affected residents.
• Works with state and federal agencies to request assistance.
• Post-disaster:
• Leads local recovery efforts.
• Provides support to disaster victims.
• Evaluates local response and recovery efforts.

Individual Roles and Responsibilities

Individuals play a crucial role in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

• Pre-disaster:
  • Develops personal and family emergency plans.
  • Builds an emergency kit.
  • Stays informed about potential hazards.
  • Participates in community preparedness activities.
• During a disaster:
  • Follows emergency plans.
  • Prioritizes safety and well-being.
  • Communicates with family and friends.
  • Cooperates with emergency responders.
• Post-disaster:
  • Assists in recovery efforts.
  • Supports neighbors and community members.
  • Follows guidance from government officials.
  • Seeks mental health support if needed.

Effective disaster management requires collaboration between all levels of government and individuals. By working together, communities can increase their resilience and minimize the impact of natural disasters.