A powercut? If you're really worried about a powercut, then quit using a PC altogether!
If not then you may want to grab yourself a UPS.
As you say, the same could happen with anything. It's going to be quite rare for your iPod to screw up from an update. Like I say, whether you're worried about losing your .mp3 files or not, I would definatley get an external hard disc, that way if you do end up bamjaxing your iPod, at least you will always have your music (and other data) backed up.