...though there's nothing about Irving to write home about" - Austin Lounge Lizards, "Irving"

Made the decision to evacuate last night when Katrina hit category 3 status. I was here for Alicia in 1983; that was scary enough. We were farther inland (and in newer construction) than I am now. The dogs and I will be leaving tomorrow, time unknown, for Irving, TX. Hope everyone is safe. Take care!

Have something that would be ruined by coming in contact with water but can't, for whatever reason, pack it out with you?

Remove the racks from your dishwasher, carefully place the item(s) in said dishwasher, and lock it. Don't forget to turn off the power to dishwasher (you were going to do that anyway before evacuating, right?) so that you don't accidentally inundate your stuff.

Voila! Semi-secure, waterproof storage.