Preparedness in light of Katrina

Consider what we've been seeing in the wake of Hurricane Katrina since it ran over Louisiana Monday: the confusion of rescue agencies, the failure of relief efforts, the magnification of particular incidents by the media. I want to speak carefully here. Confusion, failure and media distortion are to be expected in some degree, and I'm not here to cast blame, only urge self-interested caution. Where we have our own large-scale natural hazards--flood, earthquake, volcanism--we can put ourselves in Louisiana's shoes and give some thought to our own preparations.

What I see is that whatever we prepare for, reality could exceed. Reality could also sidestep our preparations and leave us unexpectedly naked. In that situation, our only assets will be knowledge, cooperation and presence of mind. We must think beyond preparedness and learn from the many lessons Katrina is teaching us.