Most people probably don't feel a need to prepare for another blackout, because they weren't seriously inconvenienced by the last one and so they figure the next one won't be a problem either. I was in NYC during the 2003 blackout and I think I was like a lot of people, for which it wasn't a major problem and it wasn't a minor problem, but rather, it was the opposite of a problem---it was something quite nice, a welcome break from the noise and hurry of daily life in the city, like getting a little vacation where I could hang out at home and play with my flashlights, and could go outside at night and see actual stars for once. Neighbors had barbeques and stores and restaurants sold or gave away food on the sidewalk so it wouldn't spoil without refrigeration. It felt almost like a picnic. Yeah, there were some people trapped on public transit for several hours (minor hassle), some food spoiled and stuff like that, and I think there was actually a fatality or two, but that's like hearing that there was a car accident in another part of town--it's not likely to change anyone's driving habits.

I think those in the blackout were lucky that it happened in the summer, in good weather. If they expect another blackout to be a repeat of the first one, I don't blame them for not making preparations. Unfortunately, they may not be so lucky. The next blackout may be in an ice storm or hurricane.