Written by more than 30 emergency physicians with first-hand experience at disasters, this volume is the first single comprehensive reference on disaster medicine. It provides the information that every emergency department needs to prepare for and handle the challenges of natural and manmade disasters.Coverage encompasses a wide range of situations, including floods, hurricanes, fires, famine, accidents, and acts of terrorism. The contributors present guidelines for assessing the affected population's health care needs, establishing priorities, allocating resources, and treating individuals. Close attention is also given to the role of emergency medical services in disasters.