The Department Of Homeland Security (DHS)
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was established in 2002 as a result of the 2001 terrorist attack on the United States. The DHS is composed of 22 different federal departments. Together they provide the coordinated, comprehensive federal response in the event of a terrorist attack, natural disaster, or other large-scale emergency while working with federal, state, local, and private sector partners to ensure a swift and effective recovery effort. Their missions include preventing terrorism and enhancing security; managing our borders; administering immigration laws; securing cyberspace; and ensuring disaster resilience (Mission). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is responsible for managing catastrophic events,
was integrated into DHS in 2003. Together, they are responsible for coordinating efforts at all government levels to ensure emergency preparedness for any catastrophic events such as bioterrorism; chemical and radiation emergencies; mass casualties as a result of explosions, natural disasters, and severe weather; and disease outbreaks. They coordinate with the Centers for Disease Control to ensure there are plans in place to quickly resolve these events. DHS has also developed a National Incident Management System (NIMS) that provides a systemic, proactive approach to all levels of government and private sector agencies to collaborate and ensure there is a seamless plan to manage any major incidents (Niles, 2015, p.105-106).
was integrated into DHS in 2003. Together, they are responsible for coordinating efforts at all government levels to ensure emergency preparedness for any catastrophic events such as bioterrorism; chemical and radiation emergencies; mass casualties as a result of explosions, natural disasters, and severe weather; and disease outbreaks. They coordinate with the Centers for Disease Control to ensure there are plans in place to quickly resolve these events. DHS has also developed a National Incident Management System (NIMS) that provides a systemic, proactive approach to all levels of government and private sector agencies to collaborate and ensure there is a seamless plan to manage any major incidents (Niles, 2015, p.105-106).