In some countries, the head of municipal government (the mayor, or other chief executive) bears the main responsibility for disaster management, while in others this is the preserve of the national government. Even in the former case, the national interest may be allowed to override the local, and governments may take control of large events. Good principles of disaster management indicate that this should be done in such a way as to preserve and reinforce local autonomy, for once the national forces have departed, the local administration may have to fend for itself once more.

It is a fundamental responsibility of governments to protect their citizens by maintaining public safety and security. The former means guarding against major hazards of all kinds, including disease outbreaks, unsanitary ...