If it's like a California emergency (sudden earthquake) then I've got to depend on what I've got with me. That's usually a minimum of an AlMar Cash Clip money clip with a small blade and a nail file. Then either a Small plain Sebenza, BM941 BC1 or Socom Elite depending on dress. I would minimally have a Photon III as well for light.
If I'm lucky enough to have retained my laptop case, I'll also have a Leatherman WAVE, a small combo screwdriver and a Surefire E2E with a spare set of batteries. There's also a small first aid kit and a mobile pharmacy (Excedrin, Imodium, Pepcid, Tylenol Cold and Sinus, etc.). I'm thinking of adding a SAK Cybertool 29 to my breifcase soon to expand my portable repair capabilities.
If I can get to the car, I have a small backpack with a space blanket, an emergency blanket (wool type), a portable radio some Jerky, a few bottles of water, a compact poncho, a CS Med Combo tanto blade Voyager, a MiniMag w/ spare batteries and a pair of tennis shoes (in case I'm wearing loafers when the **** hits the fan)and I'm far from home.
I need to upgrade this system but am waiting for the Inova X5Ts to become more available.
If I have time to prepare for the event with what I currently own, I'd start with my Lile Combat (7.5" D2 blade, micarta handles), then my Leatherman WAVE, Microtech Socom Elite and SAK Mechanic and the Surefire E2E/ Photon III combo.
Then there's what I'd have if I had time to prepare and an unlimited budget....
Just my opinions.
jmx