Following up on the emergency preparedness topic, I've run across a book that looks beyond normal run of the mill issues surrounding a crisis. When Technology Fails: A Manual for Self-Reliance and Survival begins where most emergency books fail and has taken a closer look at the broader field of self-reliance rather than simply beginning with reactions in crisis. There's a lot to think about here. But if you want to skip entirely thinking of the long-term or move past the stockpiling Emergency Supplies (and I'll admit they think about more products than I would have thought about needing) you'll probably want to read through the CERF pages. Focusing on advice from craft artists who have lived through a natural disaster, CERF, although not specifically addressing details like emergency kits for artists, has lots of information that may be helpful in thinking about a possible emergency. Highlights for craft artists who want to be prepared for a natural disaster include:

1. Insurance: “Insure as much as you can afford.

2. Location: “Consider a safe business location, as far as possible from disasters happening (not near volcanoes, in possible flood zones, in old buildings with faulty wiring, etc.). “Check the flood tables for your studio's location.

3. Planning & preparation: “Reduce the clutter in living and workspaces. “Keep all receipts for all things purchased. Be diverse. If you are knocked out of production by a disaster, then have another skill to help you get back on your feet in the meantime.”

4. Responding to a disaster: Minimize water damage as quickly as possible. Never depend on government agencies to assist you. You will waste valuable time and patience.”

5. Keep an unsinkable attitude. Keep a journal. Don't forget to relax. “Keep a sense of humor.” Remember to be grateful for all that you DO have.

Lots to think about, or try to ignore depending on your personality and capacity.