Unfortunately over the last week we have been shown how impotent our government can be at its primary job, that of protecting its citizens. The stark pictures on television are the only warning we will get: As long as this administration is in office, we must count on ourselves when disaster strikes.
Knowing this, my husband suggested that we draft a family disaster plan.
We've been taking stock of our camping supplies, containers for water, and considered places in the region to seek refuge. We do not live in an area that is prone to disaster, but tragedy seldom gives advance notice. After the past week we know better than to feel safe, even when our leaders know exactly what is coming. This isn't about being paranoid, it is about being ready while hoping we never need to be.
As we were discussing the the worst that can happen, the truth of who suffers and who survives came to mind. If I was going to make a list of the factors that most determine who lives and who dies in a disaster, it wouldn't be about preparation. It wouldn't include the basics of food water and shelter. It would look much more like this:
Don't be poor or of minority status
Don't be old
Don't be sick or infirm
Unfortunately for the above people, no quantity of planning can offset their present state of being. There is nothing these people can do but rely upon a broken system. For many in NOLA, it is already too late.
Hence, we can't let this turn into a situation we've all seen, like a bad commercial played too many times. Our leaders are well practiced at claiming they will investigate and claiming they will fix the system. The words are designed to make us feel safe, while distracting us from holding them accountable and ensuring that their incompetence will not be repeated.
The above is something to keep in mind, but whatever you do... don't forget how unsafe we are. Until the system is fixed, be prepared for the 100 year scenario - as prepared as you can be. NOLA has shown us that there is no safety net.