Final answer:
Initiating a disaster response occurs in the response phase, which involves providing immediate assistance to maintain life, improve health, and support the morale of affected populations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Initiating a disaster response is completed within the response phase of disaster management. The disaster management cycle consists of four main phases: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. During the response phase, actions are taken to ensure the safety and to provide the basic needs of affected populations, such as search and rescue, emergency shelter, medical care, and distribution of food and water. It is a critical phase where agencies and organizations work quickly and efficiently to address immediate threats presented by the disaster.