Jerome M. Hauer, who as the first director of the Office of Emergency Management oversaw New York City’s response to floods, manhole explosions, mold outbreaks, building collapses, water main breaks, blackouts, hurricanes, sink holes, downed trees, terrorist threats, vermin, and the uncertain digital impact on computer networks of Y2K at the turn of the millennium, died on August 11 at his home in Alexandria, VA. He was 71.

Reportedly, Mr. Hauer would visit the sites of catastrophes, sift through piles of rubble for a brick or other remnant, then bring it back to his office as a solemn reminder that his mission was to prepare for the worst in a world of what-ifs.