Elected and appointed officials help their communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from potential incidents. Key responsibilities include: (1) Establishing strong working relationships with local jurisdictional leaders and core privatesector organizations, voluntary agencies, and community partners. The objective is to get to know, coordinate with, and train with local partners in advance of an incident and to develop mutual aid and/or assistance agreements for support in response to an incident. (2) Leading and encouraging local leaders to focus on preparedness by participating in planning, training, and exercises. (3) Supporting participation in local mitigation efforts within the jurisdiction and, as appropriate, with the private sector. (4) Understanding and implementing laws and regulations that support emergency management and response. (5) Ensuring that local emergency plans take into account the needs of: (5.a) The jurisdiction, including persons, property, and structures. (5.b) Individuals with special needs, including those with service animals. (5.c) Individuals with household pets. (6) Encouraging residents to participate in volunteer organizations and training courses. (DHS, NRF, Jan 2008, 16)