Susan, you raise a fundamental issue and one I was trying to address in my typical verbose story-telling style. The bug out scenario is the one that will likely occur without much warning and the need will be to act quickly. Also, it would likely to be of relatively short duration. (3-10 days)

What you're saying, I believe, is that there are scenarios of systemic collapse on a national basis that brings us back to maybe the 1950's or earlier. And things get rough and maybe we'll need to not venture out into public because there is chaos in the streets.

That's possible, but not probable to my way of thinking. If it does happen I think observant people will see it coming and prepare. ITSHTF nationally after a couple of weeks it will be clear that help is either on the way or it ain't coming and we're all screwed. (except for those with a year or two's worth of freeze dried food, a bunker and plenty of ammo) But I can't see a risk benefit anlaysis that supports that kind of investment. Hey, if I'm wrong you can have my share of what's left.

Practically speaking, I could hold up in my house, with or without electricity for a week or two. If I need to vacate my part of the country I have family who are far enough away that they will not likely be affected. If it's really bad I'll drive up Rt 41 to Amish country. They're the people you want to know if things go bad!

Andy

P.S. I grew up in the 50's, wouldn't mind living that again.