For many, Ivana, personal common sense is the best source of aide but many don’t have common sense or are too young to have developed it through experience. We are not born knowing what to do in such extreme situations. Having lived a collection of years teaches us a thing or two but some don’t learn the lessons of life, some had an easy time of it and didn’t live through situations that taught anything useful, some are too ignorant to learn from experience, some can’t retain the knowledge they acquired due to disabilities or mental health issues, many are too young — in years and/or in emotional maturity, and, unfortunately, many are too arrogant and stupid.

Not all can be self-sufficient and self-directed during times of emergency. And, those of us who can be as self-reliant as possible are often deterred and compromised by those who are oblivious to the seriousness of this and other situations.

Which is exactly why we need informed, intelligent leaders, ones that can assess and mitigate dangerous situations. Right now we need leaders with wisdom who put the common good above their own egos, who can work together without bickering, and who can recognize and empower those who can do the most good. Those are the traits of true leaders.