The Shaker Heights Fire Department (SHFD) possesses some components related to community risk assessment programs. The majority of these programs have developed over time in response to specific departmental needs. Although these programs serve to address specific community issues, the problem still remains that the SHFD has never completed a comprehensive community risk and capability analysis thus the true department capability and risks to Shaker Heights, OH are unknown. This study's purpose was to identify the necessary elements of a comprehensive community risk and capability assessment program and identify the missing components needed to complete such a program for the City of Shaker Heights. Research questions included: 1. What risk assessment methods do communities use to identify risks and hazards? 2.What are the necessary components of an effective community risk and capabilities assessment? 3. To what extent have risks and the corresponding resources needed to effectively deal with those risks been identified in Shaker Heights? 4. What gaps currently exist that must be filled to provide a comprehensive risk management program for the community? Evaluative research methods including literature review, questionnaire and data analysis revealed that Shaker Heights does have some missing components necessary for a comprehensive community risk assessment to be considered complete. Recommendations include (a) seeking greater input form stakeholders; (b) conducting a comprehensive capabilities assessment; (c) implementing an established training program; (d) incorporating disaster plan elements and procedures into non-emergency events; and (e) establishing schedules and methods to evaluate the program.