Which term best describes actions taken to lessen the impacts of an emergency?

The term that best describes actions taken to lessen the impacts of an emergency is mitigation. Mitigation involves strategies and measures designed to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards and disasters. This can include structural changes, planning and zoning regulations, public education, and risk assessments that aim to minimize the consequences of potential emergencies before they occur.

In contrast, response refers to the immediate actions taken during or after an emergency to address the needs of affected individuals, restore systems, and manage the incident. Preparedness involves planning and training ahead of an emergency to ensure that personnel and resources are ready to respond effectively. Recovery focuses on the actions taken after an emergency to restore the affected area to its previous state, which may include rebuilding and providing support to the community. Each of these phases is crucial in emergency management, but mitigation specifically targets reducing the severity and impact of emergencies beforehand.