Book: Cooperation aids disaster response NEWARK, N.J., Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Two emergency medicine and bioterrorism experts say collaborative effort and good communication is essential in responding to tragic events. Leonard Cole and Nancy Connell of the Center for BioDefense at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey -- New Jersey Medical School wrote the book "Local Planning for Terror and Disaster: From Bioterrorism to Earthquakes," which aims to educate both first responders and the general public on best practices for responding to and coping with the uncertainties of tragic events. Connell specializes in biodefense and biological weapons, local preparedness, assessing the quality of preparedness and offering directions for improvement. Cole is an adjunct professor in Emergency Medicine Department who also directs the Program on Terror Medicine and Security. The book explores the relatively new field of terror medicine and concludes properly informed bystanders and survivors can play helpful roles. It says anticipating the improbable should be an essential part of preparedness, which depends not only on the skills of responder groups, but also on their interactions with each other. Cole and Connell say responsible awareness can save lives and effective communication is central to a successful response during tragic events.