A White House report has called for changes in the government's response to disasters such as Hurricane Katrina.
The report, by domestic security adviser Frances Townsend, says 11 reforms are urgently needed before the start of a new hurricane season in June.
President Bush discussed the report with his cabinet Thursday, saying the reforms will help the government be better prepared for future disasters.
The changes include improved coordination with military officials during relief operations, a review of local evacuation plans and getting help more quickly to disaster victims.
The report also found flaws in the government's response to Hurricane Katrina last year, such as failures in disaster management and planning.
Earlier this month, a congressional investigation blamed failures at all levels of government for the suffering and loss of life in the Gulf Coast storm.
Some information for this report was provided by AP and Reuters.