For those of you wondering about the mention of NIMS in the previous post, it's an emergency command system based on the Incident Command System (ICS). ICS was designed for responding to wildfires, but it can be used for basically any emergency.

The basic concepts behind most of these systems is the same: A single person in charge, clear lines of command, no more than 7 subordinates at any level, well-defined responsibilities, and clear goals. You can find an overview of ICS at Making Light, written by an EMT.

These systems are worth reading and thinking about. Not only are they interesting on their own merits, but they're potential sources of good ideas for small group and community survival in an emergency.

Some people weathered this storm very well by working together. They established groups, made plans, and divided responsibilities. You need to be prepared for individual survival, but only a well-organized group can keep watch (or help elderly neighbors).