During the third step in the hazard analysis process, which is also known as developing a Community Exposure Profile, you will determine which assets in the community could be affected by the hazard and create a list of those assets. Assets include buildings and infrastructure such as critical facilities and key resources, natural resource areas, businesses, and residences.

This inventory of existing buildings (number, type, value) and estimation of potential loss following known hazards helps determine actions during damage assessment. Knowing areas of weakness helps focus resources, particularly on vulnerable populations and critical facilities, which could impact recovery. It is important to know if there are hazardous materials at that location or if there are special response needs or even if special equipment is needed to respond to an event at that location. The HVA will help determine mitigation opportunities or corrective actions that can be designed or implemented to reduce the vulnerabilities and make the community more disaster resistant. Be sure to consult the Hazard Mitigation Plan for your community. The information included in it will help in completing your HVA.

Click this link to view a sample Community Exposure Profile.