Local government is responsible for establishment of an Emergency Management Program which provides the resources for the implementation of the policies and procedures necessary to manage their community's needs during emergency situations.  Hazards and the effects of disasters are managed through four types of emergency activity, all of which constitute an Emergency management Program.  Policies and procedures regarding mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities help local government leaders and emergency response staff coordinate their efforts efficiently during periods of extreme chaos.  Citizen's expectations and reactions in disaster situations must be considered in recovery policy making, planning and program implementation.  Comprehensive and accurate documentation is critical when federal and state disaster assistance is requested and cost sharing or reimbursement is contingent upon tracking of local expenditures.  Effective mitigation activities increase the effectiveness of preparedness activities, which in turn, improves response and recovery.  An Emergency Management Program is a tool that local government leaders continually monitor and revise to reflect the community's growth and changing needs.