The Pros And Cons Of The United States Emergency Management System

Emergencies are best managed on the lowest possible level. Homeland Security Presidential Directive - 5 set the precedent for collaboration in responding to emergencies whether they are man-made or natural disasters. Resiliency creates a community that is able to come back from a crisis stronger and wiser than they were before. Although all aspects of the U.S. emergency management system are essential, the most important aspect is the whole community approach comprised of the public – private partnership and personal preparedness. The whole community approach relies on participation from all levels of government, community business, non-governmental organizations, and individual preparedness. This approach allows the community to strengthen their assets, capacities, and interests. Each of the system’s principle members has individual importance and relational value. Together, they are building blocks that form the infrastructure upon which each community's individualized system of emergency response is built. For the

With in the agency the state emergency manager works closely with the governor and local jurisdictions’ and their emergency managers to ensure resources are being utilized effectively. Should an emergency exceed the resources of the local jurisdictions and those of the state the state emergency manager would advise the governor to request federal assistance. The Stafford Act provides the legal means by which the Federal Government can provide financial and physical assistance at the result of a Presidential disaster declaration. Under the Stafford Act the President can declare an event an emergency or a major disaster depending on the severity of the event. Assistance is provided regardless of the type of declaration. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for overseeing the financial and physical