New H1B transfer before start date

[Suma1]

I am employed by company-A and it sponsored my H1. This is my first H1 and it is approved with a start date of Oct-1-2012. I am currently working on my OPT, which expires on Aug-31-2012 (+ Cap-gap = Sept-30-2012). The company-A is doing good, but my Line-of-business is going through some difficult times. People are being laid off every other week. Obviously I am very much concerned about my job/status. Below are my key questions:

I. Can I transfer my H1 to another company-B before Oct-1-2012?

1. If Company-A lays me off before Oct-1-2012 (I will get a paid 2week notice period)
   
2. If I find a better/stable job in Company-B before Oct-1-2012
   

II. Are there any additional problems if I am laid off during my cap-gap (Aug-31 to Sept-30)

Thanks..