Which group of core capabilities spans all seven Community Lifelines ?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The group of core capabilities that spans all seven Community Lifelines is “Operational Coordination.”
Explanation:
Community Lifelines, as defined by FEMA, are systems that support the health, safety, and economic security of communities. They are critical during disasters and emergencies, and the seven lifelines are:
- Safety and Security
- Food, Water, Shelter
- Health and Medical
- Energy (Power & Fuel)
- Communications
- Transportation
- Hazardous Materials
Each of these lifelines represents essential functions and services that need to be restored or maintained in disaster situations. Core capabilities, outlined by FEMA, are the fundamental areas of focus that support the achievement of preparedness and recovery goals during emergencies. These capabilities are broken down into three mission areas: prevention, protection, and response/recovery.
Among the core capabilities, Operational Coordination is the one that spans all seven Community Lifelines because it ensures that all aspects of disaster response and recovery are properly managed and synchronized. Operational Coordination involves:
- Establishing and maintaining a unified command structure
- Coordinating among multiple agencies and stakeholders
- Ensuring that all partners—from local to federal agencies, NGOs, private sector entities, and communities—are working toward the same goals
- Managing resources and information effectively to avoid duplication and gaps in service delivery
- Supporting efficient decision-making processes
During a disaster, restoring power, ensuring access to medical care, providing food and water, and maintaining transportation systems all require seamless coordination. Without Operational Coordination, efforts to restore one lifeline may negatively impact another, or critical needs may be overlooked entirely. Therefore, this capability is essential across all lifelines, enabling an integrated, whole-community approach to disaster response and recovery.