Which disaster response phase focuses on reducing the likelihood or impact of future incidents?

• A. Preparedness
• B. Response
• C. Recovery
• D. Mitigation

Answer: (D)

Mitigation is about reducing the likelihood or impact of future incidents. It involves long‑term actions taken before disasters occur, such as strengthening building codes, retrofitting structures, enforcing smart land-use planning to avoid high-risk areas, hazard mapping, early warning systems, and community risk education. These steps address vulnerabilities now so that if a disaster happens later, damage and injuries are minimized. Preparedness focuses on planning and training to respond effectively when a disaster strikes, response is about immediate actions during the event, and recovery is about restoring services and rebuilding afterward.