Homework Questions
This week’s readings looked at the issue of risk and risk management. The ability to fully understand and apply these concepts to various situations is vital to overall homeland security operations. Therefore, utilizing information provided in this week’s readings, as well as that gained in conducting your own research, please respond to the following:
1. What is a standard risk assessment formula? Clearly define the variables in the formula.
2. Should each variable in the risk formula be weighed equally or should different variables have different weights? Explain your rationale.
3. What specific role(s) does risk management play in homeland security programs and activities?
The basic equation for risk is defined as R = ƒ(C*V*T) where R is the level of risk, C is the consequences (public health, our economy, government action, public confidence in our institutions) of an attack, V is an assessment of the vulnerability of a potential target (how hard or easy it would be for it to be hit by terrorists) and T is the threat or the likelihood that a specific target will suffer an attack or disaster from a specific weapon. The Department of Homeland Security has stated that it will apply risk management principles to homeland security operations and has stated that “Ultimately, homeland security is about effectively managing risks to the Nation’s security” (DHS 2010, 2). Drawing upon your class readings and additional research, examine how risk management is used by the homeland security enterprise and the many benefits derived from such activities as resource allocation, strategic planning, grant funding, or any other homeland security-related initiatives.
Reference:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security. (2010). Quadrennial homeland security review report: A strategic framework for a secure homeland. Washington, DC: Government Printing Office. http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/qhsr_report.pdf
Be sure to support your responses with information from the assigned and available readings.
Instructions: Your initial post should be at least 350 words.
Please respond to at least 2 other students. Responses should be a minimum of 150 words to each student and include direct questions.
Forum posts are graded on timeliness, relevance, knowledge of the weekly readings, and the quality of original ideas. Sources utilized to support answers are to be cited in accordance with the APA writing style by providing a general parenthetical citation (reference the author, year and page number) within your post. Refer to grading rubric for additional details concerning grading criteria.
