Which of the following actions is critical for identifying capabilities needed for emergency response?

Engaging with critical infrastructure owners is essential for identifying the capabilities needed for effective emergency response. These owners possess specialized knowledge about the operations, vulnerabilities, and recovery processes of vital services, such as utilities, transportation, and telecommunications. Their insights help identify what resources, systems, and responses are necessary to ensure public safety and continuity of operations during an emergency.

Understanding their needs and constraints can guide emergency planners in developing comprehensive response strategies that incorporate the full spectrum of critical services. This collaboration enables a more robust assessment of potential risks and a better allocation of resources when emergencies arise.

In contrast, disregarding local resources or focusing solely on state agencies can lead to a fragmented understanding of the local landscape and response capabilities. Limiting discussions to only past incidents fails to capture evolving risks and challenges, which can hinder the effectiveness of future responses.