New Book 'Death Is Not a Fire Drill' Urges Americans to Prepare for Medical and End-of-Life Decisions

Book by healthcare leader Gail Williams offers practical framework for documenting wishes before emergencies occur

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A new book by healthcare leader and television host Gail Williams, 'Death Is Not a Fire Drill,' calls attention to the widespread lack of end-of-life and estate preparedness among American families. The book offers a practical framework for documenting medical wishes, financial information, and legacy decisions before an emergency occurs. Drawing from decades of experience helping patients and families navigate serious illness and end-of-life decisions, Williams addresses the real-world consequences families face when personal wishes are undocumented or unclear.

Why it matters

According to national estimates, only about 24% of Americans have a will, nearly 70% die without a comprehensive estate plan, and roughly 60% lack healthcare directives or durable powers of attorney. Without proper preparation, families may face extended probate proceedings, delayed access to funds, and increased legal costs. The book aims to give families direction and peace of mind before they need it.

The details

Unlike many estate-planning guides that focus primarily on legal documents, 'Death Is Not a Fire Drill' integrates practical tools with personal reflection. In addition to covering foundational planning elements like wills, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney, the book provides step-by-step guidance for organizing personal, medical, and financial information, prompts to encourage family conversations about values and wishes, and tools for tracking digital assets, key contacts, and ongoing updates.

  • The book 'Death Is Not a Fire Drill' was published on February 12, 2026.

The players

Gail Williams

A healthcare leader and television host who has spent decades helping patients and families navigate serious illness and end-of-life decisions in healthcare settings across the United States.

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What they’re saying

“I have sat with families in hospital rooms who wished they had talked sooner. This book is designed to help families have those conversations now, when they can think clearly and act intentionally.”

— Gail Williams (EINPresswire.com)

The takeaway

This book aims to help American families prepare for medical and end-of-life decisions by providing a practical framework for documenting their wishes before emergencies occur, addressing the widespread lack of preparedness and the real-world consequences families face when personal wishes are undocumented or unclear.