The main mechanisms for DRR are:

• Avoid hazards: prevention of damage through the avoidance of hazard zones (temporal or permanent)
• Mitigate risks: Mitigate the effects of events by reducing magnitude and probability of damage (reduction of hazard and/or vulnerability)
• Respond to damage: Reduce adverse effects of events through timely and effective response
• Transfer risks: Distribute risks to a large group of individuals and use means for recovery

The first two mechanisms are preventive measures, the second two preparedness measures. Today many organisations have a clear focus on mitigation of risks, in particular vulnerability reduction.

The various mechanisms to reduce risks: prevention (avoid hazards and hazardous zones); mitigation (reduce effects of hazard or reduce vulnerability of element at risk); response (respond to damage); recovery (transfer risks for rehabilitation and reconstruction). The reduction of risks depends on the mix of measures. Residual risks have to be carried by the individual.