RE: Why Americans aren't prepared for the next mega-disaster
I have worked the disasters in Louisiana and Mississippi following
Katrina, and in the wake of the flooding in Iowa in 2008. Those
that were prepared (not just individuals but as Iowa showed
graphically, communities) fared better. Prepared communities
made a particular difference in helping folks get back on their
feet. Preparation does not prevent, and you cannot prepare for
everything, but it is way ahead of being pure victim.
Most valuable? Copies of insurance forms, deeds, financial
records, licenses and certifiicates, medical records, things
needed to deal with the bureaucracy while rebuilding. Don't think
only of the first few days, but of the years to rebuild.
