I did not start this thread to scare anyone, or convince people to build EMP shelters. I started it so people (in the US, mind you. Israel would never survive a direct nuclear strike) know what to expect. If you don't want this information, do not read it.

Climbing a high horse of how your level of preparedness is exactly right is hypocritical to the extreme, considering we are all "preparedness freaks" to the general public. You are not normal and not better than anyone else.

Throwing "whatcha gonna do?"s at me is a sign of weakness. Just because the task is immense, does not mean you should suddenly give up and wish you drank more beer in life. This is exactly, precisely the attitude of "normal" people towards disaster preparedness. Hey, it's an earthquake. Whatcha gonna do? I wouldn't want to live anyway. Nice, guys. Very nice.

Again, I'm not suggesting you sell your house to buy MREs. I'm not suggesting anything. I just want respect.

As for my reaction to an EMP (say the blast was distant, for some reason) it would be to help the authorities get the grid back up as soon as possible. If the government structure collapses, I intend to organize the community (battling the same "what's the point" sentiment along the way. Jesus, I can't believe I'm hearing it here) If there is no community left, I will go look for one.

I do not have loved ones to "spend time with", as if this day was my last. I do not have the option to "enjoy life" now. Some day, I hope to change it. No EMP, or volcano, or earthquake is going to rob me of that hope.