Bee, I'm wary about those catalytic heaters. They're only designed to heat a small area (like a tent). They only put out 3000 BTU's and last only 6/7 hours on one tank. That's really not that much. I can't say anymore as I don't own one. I can say I do own some 23,000 BTU heaters that will just make my (very modest) home livable. By livable, I mean just warm enough to keep the pipes from freezing. I'd think those little heaters would be like lighting a couple of candles.
I agree many of us get carried away trying to prepare for every possible scenario (myself most definitely included!!), but I don't see a problem with a small bag left in a closet by the door or in the trunk of a car with a change of clothes and a few other things that could come in handy (a small first aid kit, a bottle or two of water, some Powerbars, flashlight, dust masks, etc.). As for your "30 seconds" of throwing some stuff in a bag, I wouldn't count on it. If there is an emergency unfolding at that time, you'll find you won't be thinking too rationally. Also, what if you're not at home if and when this emergency hits? What if you come home to find nothing left? That little bag and its contents might come in handy. Like the Grand Poobah says: "Chance favors only the prepared and equipped" <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />