What does the National Preparedness Goal primarily define?

The National Preparedness Goal primarily defines the core capabilities that are necessary to prepare for and respond to incidents effectively. This goal presents a comprehensive approach to enhance the collective preparedness of various stakeholders including federal, state, local, and tribal agencies, as well as private sector entities and non-profit organizations. It emphasizes a broad set of capabilities that communities need to develop and maintain to ensure readiness for any hazards they might face, fostering a unified, coordinated response framework.

The focus on core capabilities underscores the essential functions, skills, and resources that must be in place across all levels of government and society. This includes various domains such as prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery, providing a foundational structure to guide planning and resource allocation.

While training programs, guidelines for emergency response teams, and financial requirements are important aspects of emergency management, they are not the primary purpose of the National Preparedness Goal. The goal acts as a benchmark for capability development rather than detailing specific training or team structure, thereby fostering a comprehensive understanding of the various elements needed for effective preparedness.