Don't you people use checklists? As in:
1) Prep.
- location (where? parking? security? lighting? access? permits?)
- Contacts (names, phone numbers, addresses, etc.)
- Confirmation of schedule
- Contractual stuff (if it applies), model releases
- if using power, what outlets, power cords, load limits?
2) Equipment and other prep.
- redundant equipment (2 cameras, flashes, backup memory cards, batteries)
- Batteries charged, memory cards empty
- other lighting equipment (reflectors, softboxes, umbrellas, stands...)
- Props?
- Assistant(s) lined up and available?
3) Pre-shoot meeting
- check light, make sure you have access to all shooting areas
- shooting schedule, script?
- what are the deliverables, who decides on quality? (if not already in contract)
- emergency numbers if needed
- "facilities", break area, refreshments?
4) Day before shoot:
- review equipment list, battery status, spares, memory cards, spares
- check weather, access to general area
- talk to contact & review plan/script/schedule
- verify assistant(s) available, and arrange meeting point
- clothes for shoot, other gear?
5) Day of shoot
- Run down checklist of equipment, permits, passes
- make sure you have food, water, etc. to keep you going
- get there with plenty of time to scout out, setup,
- meet with contact, assistant(s) and go through schedule
Or you can say... frig all this, I know what I'm doing, and Murphy is some guy who I don't know. My camera never failed, I've never run out of batteries, my car never ran out of gas, and it never rains on my parade. Uh-huh.
Remember, if you fail to plan, then you can plan to fail.