1. I keep an up-to-date phone and address list in my paper dayplanner, as well as a prepaid phone card. Also there's a USB keychain flash drive with important info and computer files.

2. There's a handheld radio scanner in the house. Also a ham radio and a couple of FRS radios. All can run on AA batteries.

3. Books are pretty much left at home. I've got a couple of survival references ("98.6 Degrees" and "SAS Survival Handbook"), some basic medical references (CPR, First Responder, etc.), and enough back issues of "Backpacker" magazine to keep me occupied.