I had a prepper coworker who lived in Berkeley. He went over all his stuff in a lunchtime conversation - it was pretty extensive. I asked him if he had any guns and ammo. He seemed puzzled and said "no" and asked "why?". I explained to him that all you really needed was a gun & ammo and know where the unarmed preppers live.
I am not sure if he went gun shopping or not, but he sure looked like he was considering the thought!
All I can say is that we will not starve or go thirsty, but I will not be able to keep electricity and will lose my frozen food after a while (depends what time of year). That risk is very low and while it'd be a shame, I'd just organize a couple good size BBQ and invite the neighbors - if they bring beer!
G