[RobFromGa]

Utah Girl, need to add laptop with Internet connection to that 72 hour kit. Otherwise how will we stay informed?

[Utah Girl]

I know, life without the Internet, especially Free Republic might be the real hardship.

[Chemist_Geek]

need to add laptop with Internet connection to that 72 hour kit. Otherwise how will we stay informed?

In all seriousness, a small shortwave radio and solar panel and/or large battery is a good thing to have. The FEMA lists include a battery-operated AM/FM radio, but I think that having a SW radio which can pick up broadcasts from the BBC, Deutsche Welle, or even Radio Canada International, would be a stress-reliever.

Places like Amateur Electronic Supply and Universal Radio are good sources of both radio equipment and books regarding communications issues. (Amateur radio licensing, shortwave antennas, etc.)