Just a general comment, it's probably worth everyone's time to re-evaluate their contingency plans. I know I have been making note of some of the issues that have come up during this tragedy and will change my plans accordingly.
Keep in mind too, in the Bay Area, there are relatively few ways out, especially after an earthquake (remember the backup we all saw on the news) - essentially all roads that dump into I-80, I-5, or I-101. Commutes alone are monstrous - it would be far worse in a real disaster.
(I live in Dixon - these things are on my mind...)
Yep, you are very correct. I was thinking that we need to get an extra propane tank for cooking outside, and I need more water in the garage.
My husband vacuumed packed rice, beans, sugar, and flour in huge 5 gallon buckets after 9/11. We have those things stored under our house. I'm not real worried about having enough food. However, having a way to cook the food and enough drinkable water is the main issue.
I think to that maybe those of us in areas where a devastating natural disaster could occur need to have items to last for weeks as opposed to a few days.
I'm not real concerned about my house being totally knocked down because I live on rock (and not landfill). However, we could have to live without electricty for weeks.