In a tornado-affected rural town, which action demonstrates the community's viability?

• A. Community leaders activate the community disaster plan.
• B. Community leaders contact the federal government about disaster relief.
• C. Relief workers run out of bottled water and bedding supplies.
• D. Tornado victims are sent to a boarding home in the nearest urban area.

Answer: (A)

In disaster management, viability means a community’s ability to respond and recover using its own resources, leadership, and coordinated plans. Activating the community disaster plan shows that the town has prepared roles, defined actions, and established shelters and communication, allowing a rapid, organized response that sustains essential functions. This reflects resilience and self-reliance, helping to protect residents and begin recovery without waiting for outside help.

The other options hint at reliance on external aid, resource gaps, or displacement rather than demonstrating the community’s internal capacity. Reaching out to the federal government is important but indicates dependence on outside support, which doesn’t by itself prove local viability. Running out of basic supplies suggests preparedness and supply chain issues, not a strong, functional system. Sending victims away to an urban boarding home disrupts the community and shows limited local shelter capacity and continuity of care.