Word meaning "reduce chances of occurrence"?
In the aftermath of a significant problem I'm trying to express that the necessary steps have been taken to reduce the chances of it happening again. I can't guarantee it won't happen again, otherwise "prevent" would be perfect. The only other word I've been able to come up with is "mitigate" which incorrectly conveys that the effect of the next disaster will be diminished, not that it's less likely to happen at all.
"We've taken measures to ______ another disaster."
I'd prefer a single word, but a phrase is okay as long as it sounds less awkward than "We've taken measures to reduce the chances of another disaster occurring."
The first word that came to mind for me was mitigate. As you have ruled that word out, I'd like to offer up avert for your consideration.
We've taken measures to avert further disasters.
Merriam Webster defines avert as:
avert - transitive verb-
1 : to turn away or aside (the eyes, one's gaze, etc.) in avoidance
"I found the sight so grotesque that I had to avert my eyes … —John Gregory Dunne"
2 : to see coming and ward off : avoid
"avert disaster"
Some synonyms for avert: avoid, fend off, forestall, prevent
Consider also: safeguard which can be either a noun or a verb.
We've taken measures to safeguard against another disaster.
or
We have implemented safeguards.
Merriam Webster defines safeguard as follows:
safeguard - noun -
1 a : pass, safe-conduct
b : convoy, escort
2 a : a precautionary measure, stipulation, or device
b : a technical contrivance to prevent accident
safeguard - transitive verb -
1 : to provide a safeguard for
2 : to make safe : protect
[1] https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avert
[2] https://www.thesaurus.com/browse/avert
[3] https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safeguard
obviate TFD
(tr) to avoid or prevent (a need or difficulty)
As in:
"We've taken measures to obviate another disaster."