The guide notes that sound planning is based on such principles as selection and maintenance of objectives, legal authority, lines of authority, knowledge of resources, cooperation, foresight, imagination, concentration, and economy. The guide covers what to include in a community emergency plan and details procedures for plan implementation. Consideration is given to jurisdictional disputes, the establishment of an emergency operations control group and an emergency operations center, emergency procedures, and contingency plans. Community vulnerability is also discussed, with steps outlined for conducting a community vulnerability analysis. A model community plan is presented, problem-solving methods are described, and time and space characteristics of major emergencies are addressed. Attention is paid to the importance of knowing what resources are available and making an appropriate organizational response to emergencies. Appendixes contain additional information on the emergency operations center, hazard vulnerability analysis, vital community services, and organizing the emergency site.