What is an 'after-action review'?

An 'after-action review' is a structured review process conducted following an incident to evaluate the response actions taken during that event. This review focuses on analyzing what occurred, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the response, and determining areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to gather insights and lessons learned that can enhance future emergency management strategies and operational readiness.

This methodology is critical as it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within emergency management frameworks. By systematically assessing the effectiveness of responses, organizations can develop better training programs, refine response plans, and ensure that personnel are better prepared for future incidents.

While planning future drills, reporting to federal agencies, and surveying public perception are all important aspects of emergency management, they do not capture the essence of what an after-action review is designed to accomplish. The emphasis is specifically on learning from past incidents to improve future responses.