An overview of FEMA focuses on activities to increase local police participation in that agency's Integrated Emergency Management Systems program. Two case studies survey the emergency management system developed in West Covina, Calif., which used FEMA matching funds and the flow chart concept created to plan for unusual occurrences in Burbank, Calif. Also described is the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREC) which provides information and assistance to persons involved in or responding to chemical or hazardous waste accidents and is operated as a public service by the Chemical Manufacturers Association. A group of articles on disaster preparedness discusses a training program for police administrators conducted in southern Illinois, Sweden's approach to public evacuation in a nuclear emergency, and participation of health care facilities and professionals in disaster planning. A review of military support to civil authorities during disaster relief operations considers legal issues, procedures followed in a disaster, and types of services the military can provide. The final two articles address the psychologist's role as a consultant in hostage negotiations and applying basic communications theory to negotiations. Myths and actual facts about individual reactions and organizational responses to disasters are outlined, as are emergeny planning principles. Most articles include references and photographs.