Lessons from Katrina
A disaster like this can strike anywhere. Don't think you are immune. While you may not be hit by a hurricane, there are lots of other disasters such as tornadoes, etc., not to mention a terrorist attack.
You must be ready at all times.
Have 3-5 days of water and food in a duffel bag ready to go. Rotate the food and water every three months or so. You can live off one MRE (Meal, Ready to Eat) a day if you're not doing much. You can buy these from your local Army surplus store for about $5 each.
Have $500-$1000 in cash, at home, along with the food.
Don't forget your medications.
Know what you are going to take now, so you don't have to fret over what you're going to take in the middle of it. Write down a checklist and put it with the survival supplies.
Get a gun. Two would be better. Know how to use them. Get that CCW license, and get it NOW.
Know how to contact your family, especially if the phones go out. Develop a plan on who is going where, and in what order. Communications can be as simple as chalk on a sidewalk in a particular place.
If you have warning of an impending disaster, fill up your tank, load in your supplies and essentials and GET OUT OF THE AREA. If a disaster strikes unexpectedly, do your best to get out of the area. If you can't, hunker down somewhere as safe as you can be and be prepared to defend yourself until help arrives.
If you can, don't forget about friends who don't have a car.
Just remember: It is better to have and not need than to need and not have.