Environmental Disaster Alert!

Alice Kidd is an editor with The New Catalyst editorial collective in
Lillooet, B.C.

Earlier volumes in the Disaster Alert! series dealt with earthquakes,
hurricanes and typhoons, severe storms and blizzards, space disasters
and meteorites, terrorism, tornadoes, transportation, tsunamis,
volcanoes, and wildfires. These latest volumes continue the popular
two-page chapter format for the body of the text, supported by a table
of contents, a glossary, and an index. Each book begins with a
description of the type of disaster and some colourful myths that
illustrate our long experience with disasters. This brief introduction
is followed by the science: how and why a disaster happens and the
sequence of events. We learn of famous disasters of each kind, and what
help is available. Many of the books include chapters on forecasting,
safety, community and personal survival, and typical aftermath
situations. Sidebars and “fun facts” highlight important
information. One useful feature is the Recipe for Disaster, an
experiment related to the type of disaster—complete with instructions,
a list of ingredients, and useful questions.

In spite of their grim subject matter, the books are not
sensationalist. They use photos, drawings, and diagrams to present a
clear, informative story of the causes, patterns, and effects of each
event. They demystify the events, and offer suggestions for safety and
remediation. They encourage looking ahead and planning. Each volume
engages the reader in solutions, preparedness, and prevention with the
sections Set Up a Plan, Do Your Part, First-aid, and Flood Supplies Kit.
These simple yet thorough sections are valuable for more than just
children—our local Emergency Preparedness Committee uses them as a
model in presenting plans to the community. Highly recommended.