How does the NRF define "resilience"?

The National Response Framework (NRF) defines resilience as the ability to adapt to changing conditions and withstand and recover rapidly from disruptions. This definition emphasizes the importance of being flexible and capable in the face of challenges, which is crucial for communities and organizations involved in emergency management. It highlights a proactive approach where individuals and systems are prepared not just to respond to incidents but to bounce back effectively and continue functioning despite adverse events.

Understanding resilience in this way allows for a focus on adaptive strategies and the development of capacities that enable quick recovery. It underlines that while disruptions can occur, the goal is not only to respond to each incident but also to build systems that are robust enough to handle unforeseen challenges and rapidly resume normal operations. This perspective fosters a culture of preparedness and continuous improvement in resilience planning and community engagement activities.