Amazon.com Review
No one knows for sure what will happen when the year 2000 arrives. Some computers that help provide essential services may become "confused" and others will shut down. Even if most computers and computer-assisted technology in the U.S. are fully compliant and functional, the global network of computers involved in nearly every aspect of our lives is almost guaranteed to experience interruptions--problems both small and potentially explosive. What will be the impact on individuals? No one can say for sure. But as is the case in any other kind of potentially major disruption--severe weather, blackouts, earthquakes, hurricanes--home owners and apartment dwellers alike can do a number of concrete things to make adequate provisions for food, water, heat, and other essentials in the event of a major, or a series of minor, upheavals around the Y2K event. In a way that is neither alarmist nor hysterical, authors Dermot McGuigan and Beverly Jacobson cover the many practical and sensible steps any individual can take to prepare for potential disruptions caused by the Y2K bug. In fact, they point out some of the potential silver linings of the turn of the millennium, such as the opportunity to reestablish a stronger sense of community and networks of neighborly help and cooperation.
--Mark A. Hetts
From Library Journal
Media coverage of the Y2K problem has piqued patrons interest. This nontechnical handbook will help the average homeowner understand the possible disruptions to daily life in a highly computerized and interconnected world. In lay readers terms, the authors discuss possible service disruptions in power, food, water, and sanitation, along with inconveniences in banking, health, transportation, and communications. Rational strategies for emergency preparedness are presented, and many concrete examples are drawn from the authors experiences in the Northeast during the major ice storm of January 1998 as well as McGuigans expertise in the utility industry. This may ease the fears of some readers and inspire others to become more aware of household emergency kits and reasonable contingency plans. Though Y2K articles abound, this inexpensive, easy-to-read guide may be just what some patrons are looking for. Recommended for public libraries.Bonnie Poquette, Shorewood P.L., WI
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
