Each jurisdiction recognizes that there will be emergencies which require immediate actions and implementation of procedures to apply outside resources to make prompt and effective response to such an emergency. This is because few, if any, individual jurisdictions have all the resources they need in all types of emergencies and the capability of delivering resources to the area where emergencies occur.

The prompt, full and effective utilization of resources of the participating jurisdictions, including any resources on hand or available from any other source, that are essential to the safety, care, and welfare of the people in the event of any emergency or disaster shall be the underlying principle on which all articles of this Compact shall be understood.

On behalf of the chief elected officer of each jurisdiction participating in the Compact, the legally designated jurisdiction official who is assigned responsibility for emergency management will be responsible for the formulation of the appropriate aid plans and procedures necessary to implement the Compact.