Now in its second edition, this volume is an excellent resource for understanding human behavior and how best to communicate and work with the public in disaster situations. The author uses an informal conversational style to help readers understand the social constraints that guide responses to disaster warnings, initial responses, evacuation decisions, and longer-term impacts. He describes the history of emergency management as well as selected policy issues. Fully updated with new cases and real-world examples, the book continues to be an invaluable reference for professionals in emergency management, aid organizations, and public policy.