I just read through the threads and have this to add:

Yes, I recommend "Dare To Prepare". Yes, most of us here are beyond most of it's content, except for the fact that it is a great reminder for those of us in the middle of trying to bug out AND not forget anything. Also check out Nuclear War Survival Skills -Chapter 4 - Evacuation.

IRT Shelters - I think I'll be better off outrunning the hurricane and find a cave, using my Topo Charts. I know that I can place a certain amount of faith and trust in the shelter operators but it's the inmates that can't be trusted. How many times have you seen the Police arrive at the moment needed to stop the crime before it can occur? I don't find the idea of CSI "where ever" catching my killer afterwards, being a comfort. I don't like being denied the right to defend myself and property. I CAN DIG A BUNKER (like in the war movies) in 12 hours, if need be.

Remember the amount of hand guns that were taken off of Katrina refugees in Houston (1st stop)? Look at the crime statistics of every city that those same refugee were relocated to (starting w/Houston). Look at the number of hand guns that were taken off of those refugees when they arrved at new shelters in other cities, AFTER being shook down by the Houston and San Antonio Police Depts. 60% of the refugees arriving in Boston were arrested upon arrival for illegal possession of handguns stolen from NOLA stores.

The intelligence level of the NOLA refugees are further documented by the receipts that FEMA has received because of the "Debit Cards" - They came from well known disaster supply points like Houston strip bars, jewellry stores, liquor stores, etc. That's why FEMA cancelled the Debit Card Idea. It left a very good paper trail that shows how the money was actually spent.

I'll go to my room now.