Yesterday's Los Angeles Times had a decent article on the region's preparedness (or lack of it) for a truly massive disaster.

The info is nothing new to the readers of this forum, but could be informative to pass along to others and impress upon them the need to be prepared for a massive disaster, along the size of a Katrina disaster.

The take-away messages I got from the article were:

1. We can't count on gov't for a speedy rescue/bailout after a catastrophic disaster. They will be overwhelmed.

2. Conversely, we need to prepare ourselves--and 72 hours probably isn't enough. Being prepared to be self-sufficient for 7-10 days is more like it. But something is better than nothing, too.

3. Have contingencies, be flexible. Disasters have a funny way of causing unexpected situations which may throw all your carefully laid out plans into disarray.

I thought I'd also mention that there is also a basic list of suggested supplies at the end of the article, since we're all obsessed with lists like these and debating their merits around here. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

The fact there is no 'agreement' to use the STAPLES center is an outrage. Citys across the country are being ripped off by concessionaires demanding tax breaks, land and zoning ammendments to bring a bunch of steroid pumped sports heroes, musicians or some other dog and pony show to town. In return we get a handfull of underpaid hotdog stand and custodial jobs and no emergency use agreement? My city has a 'VOLUNTEERS IN POLICING' unit of citizens with training in first aid ,traffic control and basic police procedures. They are often onscene with minpor traffic accidents or blackouts relieving fully sworn officers for other duties. Sadly, unless there is immediate profit few people will act. You couldn't give away appliance strapping tape, museum artifact wax and a host of other earthquake items before Northridge.

I am quite proud of our Mayor, Phil Hardberger, for extending the hand of solace to Katrina victims here. Phil said - on the record - open our resurces and worry about money later. "The City's credit is good."

There are so many levels of mutual aid agreements here that you can't count them, and they are all meaningless unless somebody takes charge.