The threat of disaster and the actual events resulted in a number of archives and libraries updating their disaster plans or, in some cases, creating them for the first time. However, the impetus for disaster preparedness should not be the event itself or the threat of one. Disaster preparedness is a process that involves periodic review and update of disaster plans, staff training, and inspections. It is based upon the premise that something can and, eventually, will go wrong. Disaster preparedness, including creation of a disaster plan and continual staff education, is essential for effective disaster response.
Planning is the organization and action needed to carry out the other two components.
Prevention is the action taken to reduce the need for disaster response and recovery and to lessen the severity of disasters that do occur. Response is the action taken during the emergency, and recovery is the action taken after it is brought under control to return the situation to normal. The formation of a disaster planning committee is an excellent way to begin the disaster planning process. The plan should be reviewed and updated periodically, particularly after a disaster. In September 1996, the city of Portland's Stanley Parr Archives and Records Center finalized a comprehensive disaster plan consisting of 11 major sections and more than 100 pages.