Define the "Mitigation" phase of the NRF.

The "Mitigation" phase of the National Response Framework (NRF) focuses on steps taken to reduce or eliminate the impacts of disasters. This phase emphasizes proactive measures aimed at minimizing the risks associated with hazards, thereby reducing the severity of disaster impacts on communities, infrastructure, and the environment.

Mitigation strategies often involve activities such as implementing building codes, land-use planning, risk assessments, and community education programs. By addressing vulnerabilities before a disaster occurs, communities can enhance their resilience and lessen the potential for damage and the need for extensive recovery efforts later.

Other options refer to different aspects of disaster management. Recovering post-disaster is part of the recovery phase, which happens after an event has occurred. Improving post-event planning is more aligned with preparedness and can occur in various phases, not specifically tied to mitigation. Finally, allocating funding for response pertains to financial aspects during a disaster, which does not encapsulate the proactive nature of mitigation efforts aimed at preventing disasters from causing significant harm in the first place.