Response to Disaster

Response to Disaster combines the original research of author Henry W. Fischer with the literature used today to describe behavioral and organizational challenges commonly experienced before, during, and after disasters. Actual problems are presented and compared to those often misperceived to occur, know as disaster mythology. Fisher examines case studies conducted during the post-impact and long-term recovery periods of major and minor disasters worldwide. He asserts that the role of the mass media assists in eliciting needed help with an effective response, but also perpetuates disaster mythology.

Fisher presents striking comparisons between the perception of disaster in the eyes of the general public, the actual situations emergency responders face, and the way mass media reporters broadcast information. Additionally, the problems encountered by emergency response organizations are compared and contrasted with general public and media perceptions of disaster response. Fisher presents the response to September 11, 2001, the south Asian tsunami, and hurricane Katrina in this comprehensive third edition.

Henry W. Fischer, III , (Ph.D.), has served as director of the Center for Disaster Research and Education (CDRE) at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. He is an active member of the International Research Committee on Disaster, has served as the editor of UnScheduled Events and the Contemporary Disaster Review, and has been a consultant on behavioral response to disaster and terrorism for the U.S. federal government.