We've decided that Tuesday is our decision day for bugging out or bugging in.

If the storm turns toward the Atlantic, we'll assume HurCon 5. If the storm heads to NOLA, bugging out will be to San Antonio. If the storm heads to Texas, the bugging out will be to Branson, Mo.

watchful this week... I have a transfer switch and 3500W Honda genset, but it is pretty bulky, so picked up a portable 70# 2500/2200W inverter generator from Harbor Freight today...it's not an EU2000, but with a coupon only $349 plus tax... sale ends Wednesday if you are interested...

Thanks for the tip but I've got a 5,000watt Coleman generator.

Wildman, I'm always impressed at how prepared and proactive you are. Sending positive thoughts your way. I hope it misses you. I'm sure you're still bailing out from the recent flooding. Stay high and dry, my friend!

Have you made any significant changes to your plan since the flooding? Alternate power for the wheelchair, as an example?

No Jacque, I haven't. I will be revisiting that checklist soon. I do have alternative power for the 250LBS power monster though. That would be left behind in a case such as this when I am on the boat and DW & DD1 have to bug out. They will always bug out far enough to be clear of the damaged areas. There should be power available whenever they stop.

FYI: never travel back roads at night because you can't see, in a timely manner, that the bridge you are on is washed out just beyond your visual range, until it's too late.

I've now placed the boat and crew in HurCon 4 per our boat's checklist.

It's not just back roads; think of the motorcycle policeman who didn't see the collapsed freeway in time after the 1994 Northridge quake. When catastrophes have come calling, be alert for changed circumstances.

We're holding at HurCon 3. We've decided to bug in. As soon as this depression gets to Florida, we'll drop back to HurCon 5.

Not quite as formal as your system wildman, but I just sent this to friends and family:

Hi all - It is still VERY early at 5 days out, and lots can change, but as an FYI, it is possible that we'll have a tropical storm in southeast New England by Monday 8a. Keep your eyes on the news, wunderground, or a nerdy weather blog. And of course, give the Wirecutter Emergency Guide a read. Not too late to sharpen your pocket knife, get batteries in your flashlight, buy a lighter, charge your handheld radio, make some Amazon prime purchases and fill up a gas can or two if needed. [Redacted name] and I are slated to be in [redacted], so it could make for a fun drive home. Fortunately this storm will probably be a miss, but it is worth watching. Happy Labor Day!

Unfortunately links didn't carry through...but here is my favorite: http://thesweethome.com/reviews/emergency-preparedness/

Good luck to all in NW Florida. Hermine looks like it could get very ugly.