How is risk defined in the context of emergency management?

In the context of emergency management, risk is defined as the potential for an unwanted outcome from a hazard. This encompasses the likelihood that an event will occur, as well as the severity of its consequences. The focus is on identifying hazards—such as natural disasters, technological accidents, or human-made threats—and assessing how these hazards could lead to adverse effects on people, property, and the environment.

Understanding risk is crucial for effective emergency management because it allows planners and responders to prioritize resources, develop strategies for mitigation, and prepare for potential emergencies. By understanding the ways in which hazards can lead to negative outcomes, emergency managers can devise plans to minimize those risks and enhance community resilience. This definition distinguishes risk from other concepts like recovery or community response capabilities, which, while important, do not directly address the nature of risk itself.