Overview

According to FEMA, “planning makes it possible to manage the entire life cycle of a potential crisis. Strategic and operational planning establishes priorities, identifies expected levels of performance and capability requirements, provides the standard for assessing capabilities and helps stakeholders learn their roles. The planning elements identify what an organization’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) should include for ensuring that contingencies are in place for delivering the capability during a large-scale disaster.” OEM works with stakeholders to develop strategic and operational plans. This includes developing building emergency plans (BEPs). In addition, OEM facilitates coordination and communication between stakeholders to improve preparedness and response capabilities.

Diagram of the preparedness cycle which shows the following steps: plan, organize/equip, train, exercise, and evaluate/improve