A concise yet comprehensive review, this introductory manual covers the history and development of major weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and their effects on humans and structures, as well as practical issues for responders. Emphasizing basic chemistry and biology, including microbiology and human health, it provides the scientific basis for the chemical and biological reactions suffered by victims and occurring at the incident site, enabling emergency responders to take appropriate action. The book addresses emergency responder issues, the Incident Command System, personal protective equipment, and decontamination. An instructor's guide with test bank questions is available upon qualifying course adoption.