An examination of the social construction of disasters, this book demonstrates how the characteristics of an event alone do not create the tragedies that unfurl. It explores why social vulnerabilities exist, what can be done to foster change, and how to reduce damage. Each chapter provides strategies for community-based mitigation by engaging those populations most at risk. Based on materials developed for the FEMA Higher Education Project, this book is an empirically-based guide on the incorporating social aspects of disasters into emergency management, public administration, and social service programs.