I'll reply to a bunch of posts in 1

RE AA cells and radios - one of my criteria for my main HT I use in disaster work was that it have an available AA cell pack. If I have the radio, I have the AA pack. My "Other" HT happens to be the same brand and model the local PD uses (but VHF not UHF). I figure in a real disaster, I can always beg/borrow a battery, and/or a charge

2)Emcomm, and public service event
Good idea, then again, I'm biased - worked 8 PS events last year, and have run more than a few nets. Then again, I'm the local ARES EC

3)Other kinds of radio - great Idea - I have an FRS radio, a CB, and other stuff available. Use what you need. Ham radio is fun, however

4)First aid class - Good to know. You probably want to take the FEMA IS-2 class even if you don't vol - good class, free online. If you join an ARES group or CERT Team, or both, make sure you take the ARRL CE-001 class (Intro to emergency communications) - ALL Emcomm folks should probably take this one. Right now, if your a league member, if you take this, and pass, you get your money back. The EC--2 and 003 classes are even better, and are meant as your skills go further. 002 is meant to prep you for the OES/AEC/Net Control roles. 003 is ment to prep you to be an EC. The 003 class requires some real work and thinking to get done, if you do it right

I mentioned the FEMA classes - there are lots of other good ones on line besides IS-2

Another good web site is the Virginia RACES web site (Tell Ed I sent you)

RE Red Cross classes - Lots of good stuff there. Here in NYC ARES, we have always pushed for our members to get their RC ID, which requires DAT training (In NYC, the RC is the lead VOAD). The DAT training is fairly good - if you end up working in a shelter, you'll have a clue