Preparing ahead of time is the first step to keeping yourself and your family safe in a time of crisis. Along with your established family emergency plan, you should create several emergency “Go Bags” that contain essential items you may need if forced to evacuate. Keep in mind it could be several days before some sort of normalcy returns to an area affected by a catastrophe.
Emergency response experts recommend that a "go bag" or survival kit be always on ready in every household for whenever disaster strikes.
To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
- Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Hygiene Kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers
- Manual can opener for food
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- Identification card with blood type and emergency contact number
- Important documents (birth certificate, marriage contract, land title
- Waterproof case
Knowledge is the best defense against catastrophes, so share your preparedness and emergency awareness with extended family members and friends.
Now that your “Go Bags” have been packed, they should be easily accessible — not tucked away deep in a closet or basement. All family members should know the location of the bags. The bags should be inspected annually to replace expired items as well as to update the kits as the needs of your family change.
Keep safe!
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