A local hazard mitigation plan has been approved by federal officials.

The Knox County Emergency Management Agency announced this week that the Federal Emergency Management agency or FEMA has signed off on the plan designed as a long term initiative to reduce the community’s vulnerability to natural disasters.

Vincennes, Bicknell and incorporated towns are part of the plan to identify hazards and help local government and emergency professionals to make decisions to protect life and property.

The plans are government mandated and undergo an approval process every five years.