I have to agree that 'riding out' a storm isn't usually a good course of action. I have been stuck riding out storms (fire rescue) and one or two at my house (storm changed course unexpectedly and shut off evacuation routes)

Consider the following if there is a serious storm coming:

- you will be without power/utilities. Even if you don't sustain direct damage, you will have no AC, TV, computer, lights, refrigeration, etc. at least during the storm.

- you cannot safely travel when windspeeds are over 40 knots. If your car/truck doesn't get pushed around, you'll be hit by branches, signs, garbage cans, power lines, etc. And, the water will be deep..

- EMS and police will not respond to anything until windspeeds are less than 40 knots. That could mean up to 20 hours with no response. If you flood out, even less chance of anyone getting to you. So don't get electrocuted, break anything, hurt your back, have a heart attack, etc....

- There is no way you can make any sort of building repairs during the storm. You just have to sit there and watch your house come apart, or flood. And you won't be able to get to a shelter if the roof comes off until the wind dies down...

- Riding out storms with your kids is even more pointless. Notwithstanding the reckless endangerment of minors issue, the emotional trauma of hurricanes on children is deep and long lasting...

I applaud all those prudent enough to evacuate before Gustav. I would rather have my tax dollars pay to assist those who did evacuate than to waste them on hig risk rescue operations for those dopes who thought they could ride out storms in their manufactured housing...

Is your property really worth more than your life? If so, please get insurance on the property, and evacuate...