U. S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge today announced approval of the Initial National Response Plan, an interim plan designed to help develop a unified approach to domestic incident management across the nation. The INRP represents a significant first step towards the overall goal of integrating the current family of federal domestic prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery plans into a single all-hazards plan.

"I commend the many dedicated professionals from state and local governments, law enforcement, and the fire and emergency management communities, tribal associations, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations across America who all worked with the Department to develop this initial unified plan," Ridge said. "Their efforts and this Initial National Response Plan make America better prepared by integrating the emergency response plans that cover terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies. As this effort further evolves, our homeland security effort will be guided by the concept of one plan, one team, and one fight."

Initial National Response Plan
Initial National Response Plan Fact Sheet