The questions shouldn't die down after the initial disaster passes over. Readers remain hungry for answers on topics such as what to expect in the days ahead, how they can help victims and whether government agencies were adequately prepared. Follow-up stories might also examine factors that made a disaster's effects better or worse. Depending on your question, colleges and universities can be the best sources. In any event, feel free to surf the Web for additional names and contacts. The more people you can call, the more likely you are to reach someone and the better your story will be.

General Experts

• UnivSource - comprehensive listing of colleges and universities in Pennsylvania
• PACU (Pennsylvania Colleges and Universities)
• Penn State's list of experts
• Weather experts

Emergency Preparedness Experts

• George Washington University - Homeland Security Policy Institute, Center for Emergency Preparedness, READI (Response to Emergencies and Disasters Insitute)
• Johns Hopkins University
• Rand Corporation

Terrorism Experts

• University of Southern California

Bioterrorism Experts

• Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Disaster References

• Federal Emergency Mangament Agency
• Historical Disasters
• Pennsylvania American Red Cross
• Disaster News Network
• Find a local blood bank
• Preparedness tips for special needs - Tips on emergency preparedness for people with special needs, from people with disabilities to those who rely on life-support systems.
• What happens to businesses that suffer catastrophic losses
• Directory of local chambers of commerce
• Toxic chemical release information - What local plants store or process chemicals - search factories by zip code