"Im sorry but I hear you talking about convenience and comfort... not survival."

It's always a good idea to keep in mind what conditions are likely to immediately after a disaster. When the roads are cleared, you will probably be expected back to work no matter what conditions are like at home.

Having a generator can keep Grandma's oxygen machine going, operate a fan for her, keep all that meat from rotting, etc. In the winter, it's nice to be able to come in from putting a tarp on the roof where the ice-laden tree limb fell, and warm up in front of a small heater. Older people can get hypothermic in a cool house. And if you happen to have a sick baby, cold isn't likely to hurry improvement.

Preparedness is preparing for all levels of a disaster, not just the immediate 3-day aftermath.

Sue