Quote:
Martin, you've mentioned many times that New York City officals are well prepared for a disaster, but what about the average person there? Have people learned from 9/11 and the blackouts that they should keep an emergency kit on hand?

-Blast


Blast,

That's an interesting question, but I'm afraid we'll all be dissapointed with the answer. In truth, I don't think that the average person is more prepared.

I've had to evacuate from three office buildings in Manhattan over the past eight years (9/11/01, 2003 blackout, 2007(?) steam pipe explosion) and I make sure that I always have, at minimum, a flashlight, comfortable shoes, and a water bottle ready to go (usually I have more than just this). However, when I pull out my light to help find something, most people are incredulous, and would never have thought to carry such a thing on a daily basis. I might get one or two knowing glances out of a group, but that's it.

However, I will say that most offices are much more prepared. There are regular emergency drills, and I have been issued an emergency kit containing a dusk mask, light, water, and even a small battery-powered radio. This will certainly help people who are at their desks to have some small amount of gear to make their treks home more comfortable.

Now that I live out in the 'burbs my trip home will be more complicated than when I lived in Brooklyn or Manhattan, but that's a whole other topic for another day.