Which statement best describes disaster planning regarding timing?

• A. Planning should occur after a disaster occurs
• B. Planning should be ongoing only during disasters
• C. Planning should happen before a disaster occurs
• D. Planning is optional

Answer: (C)

Disaster planning timing is about being proactive and ready before anything happens. Having a plan in place before a disaster hits lets you set up clear roles, assign responsibilities, establish communication channels, stock and verify resources, and rehearse procedures. This preparation makes responses faster and more coordinated, reduces confusion, and helps protect lives and property when the real event occurs.

Waiting to plan until after a disaster has started is risky because decisions must be made under pressure, information is chaotic, and there’s little opportunity to test or refine procedures. Planning only during disasters isn’t feasible—there isn’t time to build and implement a solid plan mid-crisis. And planning is not optional; preparedness is essential to an effective response.