California Fires and Katrina

I marvel at the differences between what happened in Louisiana after Katrina and what is going on in the wake of the California fires. Just compare what went on in the Super Dome with what is transpiring in Qualcomm Stadium.

Both venues were packed with evacuees but the difference is like night and day. No reports of looting, rapes or murder. In fact, the evacuated residents of San Diego seem to be having a rather pleasant time, considering the circumstances.

To quote a post on an Internet message board, "...it sure does sound like San Diego really has its act together; I've been really impressed. From what I understand, they're even making room for pets in the shelters, and have clowns at Qualcomm Stadium to amuse the children who are stuck there. What a welcome contrast to the pathetic aftermath of Katrina."

Another wrote,"I just spoke to a friend who had been evacuated to Qualcomm for 2 days.
She's just returned to her home in Scripps Ranch. She told me that at Qualcomm, there were vet techs there, giving eye drops to animals and making sure all animals had plenty of food and water. Also, they put up temporary awnings to make shade. There are church organizations with people helping to watch kids and walk dogs. There are arts and crafts and little splashy pools set up for kids and seniors. Also, someone was leading a yoga class!

"This morning there were men from a service organization that came in and set
up big griddles and cooked pancakes for all who wanted them."

Admitted, there is a big logistical difference between the two events, but that alone doesn't explain the differences in civility. Is California better prepared to handle natural disasters? Are Californians more cooperative?