Introduction
Disasters are not uncommon; 69% of persons living in the southeastern United States have reported exposure to some traumatic event. A major disaster occurs somewhere in the world almost daily; however, to most people, disasters of the type discussed in this module are unusual events. The low probability of a major catastrophe leads to a certain degree of complacency and underestimation of the impact of such an event. The results of this complacent attitude are frequently felt after the cataclysmic episode subsides. Indeed, the best time to propose major changes for disaster preparedness, including its funding, is immediately following a major disaster, even if it has occurred in a remote jurisdiction.