What is a Hazard Mitigation Plan?

A Hazard Mitigation Plan is fundamentally centered on reducing the potential effects of disasters before they occur. By identifying risks and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks, communities can lessen the impact of future disasters on people, property, and the economy. This proactive approach emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation, allowing for resources to be allocated effectively, reducing vulnerabilities, and enhancing resilience against potential hazards.

In contrast, the other options do not embody the essence of a Hazard Mitigation Plan. Improving community morale may be an important community initiative, but it is not the focus of hazard mitigation. Evacuation plans are indeed critical for disaster response, but they deal primarily with actions taken during an emergency rather than preemptive strategies. Lastly, a document outlining recreational activities does not pertain to disaster risk management and is unrelated to the goal of minimizing disaster impact.