Final answer:
The incorrect statement concerning the historical trend of major disaster and emergency declarations is that FEMA has always been effective in coordination, which is not the case, highlighted by the criticism during Hurricane Katrina. Over time, disaster response has become more federalized, and the increase in extreme weather events affects both frequency and preparedness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The incorrect statement concerning the historical trend of major disaster and emergency declarations from 1953 to 2013 is that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has always been effective in its coordination during crisis situations. In reality, there have been instances where FEMA was criticized for inefficiency, as observed during Hurricane Katrina in 2005 when the response was hindered by poor coordination and leadership issues. Over time, responses to natural disasters in the United States have evolved, with a marked increase in the federalization of disaster response power, specifically after the 9/11 attacks which led to the formation of the Department of Homeland Security.
This shift has led to changes in how disaster responses are managed, with more centralized federal control and policy implementation. Moreover, the trend of increasing extreme weather events has affected disaster response frequency and preparedness, as the intensity and impact of such events have escalated over the years, including record-breaking hurricane seasons, as seen in 2020 with an unprecedented number of named storms and significant damage.
It is also key to note that disaster preparedness and response are not just about the efficiency of agencies like FEMA, but also about the political decisions and actions taken by elected leaders. The case of the Texas freeze demonstrates the delicate balance officials must maintain between managing political risks and ensuring public safety. Overreaction or under-preparedness can both lead to devastating consequences.