Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COADs) are proactively looking for ways to mitigate against disasters at the local level. Because COADs represent many human service providers and have a concern for community resilience, and the relief and recovery of disaster victims, they can be a launch pad for disaster preparedness. COADs have a broad mission: to strengthen area-wide disaster coordi
nation by sharing programs, policies, information, joint planning and training. COADs will be active in all phases of emergency management:
Mitigation Any activity taken to eliminate or reduce the degree of long-term risk to human life, property and the environment from the effects of natural and technological hazards. Preparedness Any activity taken in advance of an emergency that improves emergency readiness posture and develops or expands operational capabilities. Response Any action taken immediately before, during or directly after an emergency occurs to save lives, minimize injuries, lessen property and environmental damage and enhance the effectiveness of recovery. Recovery A short-term activity to return vital life support systems to minimum operating standards and/or a long-term activity designed to return the affected people and areas to their predisaster conditions.
