Which agency coordinates federal response to disasters, assists individuals, and funds hazard mitigation efforts?

• A. Department of Homeland Security
• B. Federal Emergency Management Agency
• C. Environmental Protection Agency
• D. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Answer: (B)

The key idea is recognizing the agency whose mission includes leading federal response to disasters, delivering direct help to people affected, and funding projects that reduce future disaster risks. This agency does all three: when a disaster occurs and a federal response is needed, it coordinates actions with state and local partners, provides financial assistance to individuals and households, and administers grants that fund hazard mitigation projects to lessen the impact of future events. That combination of coordinating response, aiding individuals, and financing mitigation makes it the central hub for disaster-related relief and risk reduction.

Other agencies have important roles but not the same mix. The umbrella department that houses many security and emergency functions oversees broad policy but isn’t the primary entity that directly coordinates disaster response or distributes mitigation funds. The Environmental Protection Agency focuses on environmental protection, not disaster response coordination or hazard-mitigation funding. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provides critical weather data and forecasts but does not coordinate federal disaster response or fund mitigation efforts.