The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has prepared an Interim National Preparedness Goal intended to guide federal, state, and local departments and agencies, as well as the private sector, in strengthening preparedness for terrorist attacks and other emergencies. Beginning in fiscal year 2006, DHS expects state governments to update their homeland security preparedness strategies as a condition of receiving federal assistance.

The department has identified seven priorities for national preparedness. These include implementing the National Incident Management System and National Response Plan; expanding regional collaboration; implementing the Interim National Infrastructure Protection Plan; strengthening information sharing; strengthening interoperable communication capabilities; strengthening chemical, biological, radiation, nuclear, and explosive weapon detection, response, and decontamination capabilities; and strengthening medical and prophylaxis capabilities.