NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS: Integration of Federal, State, Local, and Private Sector Efforts Is Critical to an Effective National Strategy for Homeland Security
Abstract
This report discusses issues critical to developing and coordinating a national strategy to better prepare our nation against terrorist events. Although we can never be 100 percent secure from terrorist attack, nor 100 percent prepared to respond to any contingency, we can be better prepared and more secure. Federal, state, and local governments have a shared responsibility in preparing for catastrophic terrorist attacks, but the initial responsibility falls upon local governments and their organizations such as police, fire departments, emergency medical personnel, and public health agencies which will almost invariably be the first responders to such an occurrence. GAO recommends the development of a central focus and a national strategy that will improve national preparedness and enhance partnerships between federal, state, and local governments to guard against and respond to terrorist attacks. Key aspects of this strategy should include: 1) a definition and clarification of the appropriate roles and responsibilities of federal, state, and local entities; 2) direction and guidance for federal agencies and partnerships with state and local governments, and the private sector to better coordinate their missions and more effectively contribute to the overarching homeland security effort; 3) establishment of goals and performance indicators to guide the nation's preparedness efforts; and 4) a careful choice of the most appropriate tools of government to best implement the national strategy and achieve national goals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 11, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA401145
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office