The planning process includes identifying resource requirements based on the threats to, and vulnerabilities of, the jurisdiction or organization. Planning also includes developing alternative strategies to obtain needed resources. Resource management personnel should consider resources necessary to support all mission areas (Prevention, Protection, Mitigation, Response, and Recovery).

There are a number of methodologies that can be used for identifying your risks, but all methodologies should:

• Identify possible kinds of incidents and their related threats, risks, or consequences. (What might happen?)
• Quantify the likelihood of an occurrence of any given incident. (How likely is it to happen?)
• Assess the most likely magnitude of any given incident. (How bad is it likely to be?)
• Assess the percent of the population at risk from any given incident. (How many people might be injured or killed?)
• Assess the severity of impact or likely consequences of any given incident. (How much damage is there likely to be?)

This analysis will result in a picture of the most likely incidents and their potential consequences. Understanding what you are preparing to respond to will help you to identify the resources that are required.