Active vs. Passive Mitigation

There are two general types of mitigation: active and passive.

Active mitigation: Mitigation measure that require human intervention (or power) to operate properly
Passive mitigation: Mitigation measures that require no human intervention (or power) to operate properly

Passive measures are preferable and tend to be more sustainable; active mitigation measures should be avoided if possible, especially for natural hazards where there is little or no warning time, such as flash floods, tornadoes, or earthquakes.

Numbered plywood panels are secured in place to protect the store front windows as merchants make preparations for Hurricane Rita's arrival. A construction crew with heavy equipment working on gabion walls to stabilize a road bank.