The federal government plays a significant role in emergency management, which generally refers to activities associated with avoiding and responding to natural and human-caused hazards. Emergency management in the United States is highly decentralised and contextual in nature: activities often involve multiple jurisdictions as well as a vast number of agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private sector entities. In addition, the number and type of actors involved in an incident will vary tremendously depending on the context and severity of the event. Similarly, the legal framework through which emergency management functions and activities are authorised is also decentralised and stems from multiple authorities. This book describes the process for requesting federal assistance for major disasters, emergencies, and fire suppression, with a focus on Presidential Policy Directive 8 and the National Preparedness System; the Federal Stafford Act Disaster Assistance; and federal disaster recovery programs.