Given the frequency of natural and man-made disasters and the degree to which ordinary citizens find themselves as first responders, this book offers some well-researched answers to the following and frequently asked questions: - What motivates ordinary citizens to (or to want to) assist others in danger even when their own lives might be at stake? - To what extent do human emotions influence public policy and administrative decisions on how to mitigate, prepare for, and respond to catastrophic events? - How can governments better prepare for emergencies knowing these facts? The book goes further to suggest a number of strategies for policy makers, communities, and