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 The history of the United States is filled with accounts of natural disasters such as New Orleans flooding, and hurricanes Katrina, tornadoes, wild fires, blizzards, and earthquakes. These disasters often result in catastrophic damage to homes, other buildings and structures, irreparable harm to the environment, and claim many lives. They also overwhelm local emergency response resources and require state and Federal assistance.
Transportation incidents involving the release of hazardous materials, and acts of terrorism involving the potential release of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) materials, all carry the threat of large-scale destruction and mass casualties. Regardless of the nature of a threat or disaster, 1st Responders must be ready to respond.
With today's fast changing worldwide events, the ability to assure effective public safety practices in communities throughout the country has become a major challenge on a national scale. With increased emphasis on disaster preparedness, communities are being faced with the reality that they lack both the resources and knowledge to take full advantage of available training and funding opportunities.
 Often the victims of natural disasters, major hazardous materials events and terrorist attacks are members of the public. To help reduce their potential risk of harm, the public must not only become more informed, but also more involved with community preparedness efforts. Preparing our country to respond to natural disasters or acts of terror is an ongoing process that requires substantial commitment of resources such as time, money, and equipment.
There are many agencies and organizations at all levels of government and the private sector that are available to help both 1st Responders and the public to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. Friends of 1st Responders is an emerging organization available to serve both 1st Responders and the public. The information below describes Friends of 1st Responders purpose, mission, approach, and also lists prospective recipients of services.
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