Using the Hazard Mitigation Plan to Prepare Successful Mitigation ...

Step 2: Specify the Problem to be Addressed and
Identify Alternative Solutions
A good mitigation project solves
or alleviates a specific problem.
Before developing a project,
define the problem by writing a
problem statement. Then based
on this statement, identify
alternative solutions. A
systematic process for
examining the alternatives is
presented in step 3; this
process will facilitate the
selection of the best alternative
solution given the existing
conditions in the community.
Problem Statement
The hazard mitigation plan
identifies hazards and proposes mitigation actions that will reduce the
potential for damage that each hazard may cause.
In step 2, before beginning to identify potential solutions, write a problem
statement based on findings presented in the hazard mitigation plan,
carefully explaining the specific problem to be solved.
Suppose, for example, that one hazard your community faces is
earthquake, and that the problem is that a number of the structures are
vulnerable to collapse. Then one specific problem statement may be:
• People who are working or using the University Library, which is
an un-reinforced masonry public building, are at risk of being hurt
or killed during an earthquake.
Other specific problem statements relating to the seismic hazard may, for
example, address conditions of other public buildings, as well as the
need for community education, difficulties anticipated in maintaining
emergency communications, or weaknesses in the water system that will
be exacerbated should an earthquake occur. Each problem statement
should address a unique vulnerability.
How-To Guide 9: Using the Hazard Mitigation Plan to Prepare Successful Mitigation Projects
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