The lesson I learned from Andrew was more than 95% of the population would do absolutely nothing to help themselves. I went through it and although I didn't loose my house, many of my friends did. All the whining about where was the government was just that. Whining. What did they do once they got there? Yes, tent communities were setup and the military went on patrols to stop looting. Nothing that couldn't have been done in the short term by people themselves.
Our neighborhood armed ourselves (a neighbor of mine lent me his loaded 9mm for a couple of months), and we advertised this fact clearly to anyone who came by. "Looters will be shot" was a commonly seen sign around our parts.. worked pretty well too. Once news reports of a couple of would-be looters getting shot (one in the face) got out, looting virtually stopped.
Yes, I know most people are woefully unprepared for any type of disaster (attack, blizzard, ice storm, hurricane, etc.). I don't understand that mentality...especially in a post 9/11 world. Of course, if your house is blown away...there is no amount of prep you can possibly do.
Pres. Bush has to be seen as being a strong leader right now, and caring for those who can't (or wouldn't) care for themselves. If not, the media will spin it big time...as you all know.