Disaster Management in the United States Quiz
FEMA, mitigation strategies (10 questions).
Disaster Management in the United States Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Disaster management in the United States relies on a comprehensive framework involving local, state, tribal, and federal agencies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plays a central role in coordinating national efforts to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the impacts of natural and man-made disasters.
Key Takeaways
- FEMA was established in 1979 and integrated into the Department of Homeland Security in 2003.
- Mitigation is the phase of emergency management dedicated to breaking the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.
- The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act is the statutory authority for most federal disaster activities.
- Emergency management operates on a four-phase cycle: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.
- The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a critical mitigation tool managed by FEMA to provide flood insurance to property owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of FEMA?
FEMA’s mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters by coordinating federal response and recovery resources.
What is the Stafford Act?
The Stafford Act constitutes the statutory authority for most Federal disaster response activities especially as they pertain to FEMA and FEMA programs.
What are the four phases of emergency management?
The four phases are Mitigation (preventing future damage), Preparedness (planning and training), Response (immediate action), and Recovery (restoration).
How does mitigation differ from preparedness?
Mitigation focuses on long-term measures to prevent or reduce the impact of hazards (e.g., building levees), while preparedness focuses on readiness to respond when a disaster occurs (e.g., evacuation drills).
Is FEMA part of the military?
No, FEMA is a civilian agency within the Department of Homeland Security, although it often coordinates with the Department of Defense during major catastrophes.

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