No matter the type of disaster you’re preparing for, certain items must be in your go bag. These essential items could mean the difference between life and death, so having them readily accessible is paramount.
Water is essential for survival, so make sure your go bag contains plenty of it. Store bottled water inside the bag or use water filtration straws to guarantee its safety for drinking.
Water
One of the best ways to prepare for a disaster is having a go bag, also known as a bug out bag. A well-stocked go bag should include everything from a rain jacket and first aid kit so that you can survive any long haul with comfort and style. When packing your bag make sure it contains at least 72 hours worth of supplies and consider which type of disasters are likely in your area so you can pack accordingly. Furthermore, be aware of local weather conditions so you bring appropriate clothing appropriate for each season.
Food
When planning a go bag, food is likely the top priority. This can include canned goods like tomato sauce and stew, dried fruits and nuts and granola bars that will help you and your family survive. According to Mike Judge of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, these are ideal items as they’re easy to transport, cook and store in small containers. However, high temperatures may reduce shelf life of many of these items; thus it’s important to regularly evaluate your bag contents each season to make sure everything remains in excellent condition and ready to use.
In addition to emergency supplies, families should also have an evacuation plan in case a disaster strikes. September is National Preparedness Month – now is an ideal time to start creating your family’s plan. With proper preparations in place, it could mean the difference between survival and disaster.
Shelter
Preparing for a natural disaster or simply wanting to be prepared for an unexpected emergency is essential. Your go bag should contain essential items like water, food and first aid so you and your family can survive until help arrives.
In addition to water, your go bag should also contain supplies for sheltering in case an emergency arises and you need to flee your home quickly or seek refuge with friends or family members elsewhere. A portable shelter like a lightweight tent or emergency bivvy can easily fit inside the go bag and offer an affordable alternative to traditional shelter options.
Other essential items to add to your go bag include a flashlight, phone charger, extra eyeglasses and emergency cash stash. Remember that medications must also be secure in your bag away from children and animals; also reevaluate it each season to make sure it still contains what is needed. Ultimately, having the correct supplies in your go bag could mean the difference between life and death so taking time to put together one is well worth the effort.
First Aid
For serious injuries, a first aid kit should be an essential item in any bug out bag. This may contain medical supplies like antibiotics, painkillers and insect repellent. Furthermore, it should include a tourniquet which could prove invaluable in certain circumstances.
A battery-powered radio is another essential item to add to a go bag, especially if you plan to scout out an evacuation route in case of disaster. It should have good signal even in areas with poor cell reception and will enable you to check on local weather alerts or emergency evacuation routes. Other items to consider including a whistle, water bottles and granola bar – these all help you survive long hauls in your bug out bag.
Personal Items
A well-stocked go bag can keep you and your family safe in the event of a disaster. It should also include essential personal items that may be necessary if the power goes out.
According to Jonathan Sury, project director for field operations and communications at Columbia University’s Earth Institute, a go bag should contain enough food for three days as well as extra water and a flashlight. It should also have a first aid kit, radio, whistle, radio frequency identification code (RFID), and first aid supplies.
According to experts, you should pack your emergency bag in a backpack or suitcase with wheels to make it easier to transport. Make sure to include personal hygiene products like hand sanitizer, feminine products and toilet paper/wipes in the mix as well.
Medications are another essential item to have in your go bag, and it’s wise to keep a list of the medications you take. That way, it will be easy for you to quickly throw them in without having to search for them when needed.
Furthermore, keep copies of your insurance cards, photo IDs, birth certificates and deeds in a waterproof bag or box that you can store in your go bag. Also have extra cash in small bills and change so you don’t need to rely on credit cards if the power goes out.
Make sure your go bag contains a flashlight, batteries and matches in a waterproof container. If you have pets, be sure to pack leashes, portable bowls and some food for them too. Moreover, copies of veterinary records should also be kept with you at all times. Moreover, keeping an up-to-date local map with an evacuation route is highly recommended, especially if your home is fire prone or you plan to evacuate when conditions deteriorate.
