If you need to leave your home immediately, be ready to go as quickly as possible. Having a โgo bagโ in an accessible ensures you and your family are prepared for any situation. Locations to store a go bag include under a bed, in a closet, or near a door.
Each member of your family should have their own go bag. The bag should be easy to carry. Consider also having a go bag at work.
Like a home emergency kit, go bags should be updated every six months.
Essential items to include in a go bag:
- Bottled water (store at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days. Try to store more if possible)
- Non-perishable food (enough to last three days)
- Dust mask โ Depending on the emergency, you may need a mask to help protect against contaminated air.
- Manual can opener โ Your non-perishable food is likely made up of canned food. If you donโt have power, you need a way to open these cans.
- Flashlight โ Be sure to include extra batteries.
- Whistle โ A whistle can help you signal for help.
- Battery-operated or hand-cranked radio โ A radio will help you receive disaster updates and any other information.
- First Aid Kit โ Conditions during and after a disaster can vary dramatically. You may need to provide immediate care to an injured family member.
- Essential pet care items โ Your pet is a member of your family. You will want to have enough of their supplies for three days
- Multi-purpose tool โ This tool is good for a variety of situations.
- Regional maps โ If you need to evacuate and have no power or internet access, you may need to rely on a paper map to find your way to safety.
Other items to consider including in your go bag:
- Communication plan copies
- Duct Tape
- Multi-Tool
- Copies of important documents
- Essential pet care items
- Items for family members with special needs
- Books. games, puzzles or other activities for children
- Items to care for your infant or baby
- Extra house and car keys
- Blanket
- Rain gear
- Clothing
- Sturdy shoes
- Medication
- Toiletries and hygiene items
- Pen/pencil and paper
