Creating the Chart
Using the list from the previous page, let's make a chart to identify specific threats that your neighborhood might experience.
In the first column, write "Threat" and list the ones that you think are the most likely to occur in your area.
Rate the Risk
Next, let's rate the risk of each threat: how likely is the possibility that it will occur? Very likely, somewhat likely, or not very likely at all? Let's create a second column and write "Likelihood of Occurrence." Use the following percentage ranges as a guide to assess the risk for each threat, and write down the percentage number you think applies best next to each threat listed:
- Almost Certain: greater than a 90% chance
- Likely: 50-90% chance
- Moderate: 10-50% chance
- Unlikely: 3-10% chance
- Rare: 3% chance or less
Rate the Impact
One more column to go! Create a third column and write "Level of Impact: High, Medium, Low." When looking at the level of impact a particular disaster or catastrophic event could have upon your neighborhood, think of how vulnerable your area would be to injury, death, or property damage. Use these ranges as guides.
- Minor/Low: some low-level service disruption, little to no property damage, injury, loss of life
- Moderate/Medium: definite service disruption, minimum property damage, injury, loss of life
- Major/High: services severely disrupted/damaged, significant property damage, injuries, fatalities
Under the Level of Impact column, write down your assessment (High, Medium or Low) next to each threat you listed. Are you finished? Well done! this chart will give us a much better idea of what to expect and how we can properly prepare in the event of a disaster.