Why Every Household Needs a “Go Bag”

I’ve always believed in being prepared for emergencies, but yesterday and last night was eye-opening. The Corral fire broke out in the hills near our home, and with the wind whipping it into a frenzy, it began to move very fast. With winds blowing at 43 mph, we were fortunate that it was moving southeasterly, away from the houses in its path. The fire started at 2:39 PM on June 1 in San Joaquin County, California. By evening, both “prepare to evacuate” and “evacuate immediately” warnings were issued in our area. My husband and I spent the night ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, the heroic firefighters and aerial support teams stopped the fire before it reached us.

This experience, which could have been a wildfire, earthquake, or any other emergency, reminded me of the critical need for a “go bag” packed with essential items that can be grabbed quickly in an emergency. Whether you are a homeowner, frequent traveler, family member, parent, or caregiver, having a “go bag” can make all the difference. Here’s why you need one and how to create one.

What is a “Go Bag”?

A “go bag”, also known as a ‘bug-out bag’ or ’72-hour kit ‘, is a portable kit containing everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours in an emergency. It includes essential items like food, water, clothing, medical supplies, and important documents. The idea is to have it ready so you can grab it and go when disaster strikes.

Benefits of Having a “Go Bag”

1. Quick Evacuation: In emergencies, every second counts. A “go bag” lets you leave immediately without spending precious time gathering necessary items.
2. Reduced Stress: Knowing you have a prepared bag can reduce anxiety and stress during chaotic situations.
3. Survival Essentials: Ensures you have the necessities to survive for 72 hours, often the critical period before help arrives.
4. Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re prepared for unforeseen events provides a sense of security and readiness.

Essential Items for Your “Go Bag”

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure your “go bag” is complete and ready for any emergency:

-First Aid Kit

• Essential medications
• Bandages and gauze
• Tweezers and scissors

-Food and Water

• Non-perishable food for at least 72 hours (canned food, energy bars, etc.)
• 3-day supply of water, at least 1 gallon per person per day
• Water purification tablets or a filter

-Tools and Supplies

• Flashlight with extra batteries or a wind-up flashlight
• Multipurpose tool like a Swiss Army knife
• Whistle to signal for help
• Matches in a waterproof container

-Documents and Communication

• Copies of important documents (ID, insurance, etc.) in a waterproof container
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

-Clothing and Personal Items

• Extra clothing and sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, etc.)

-Special Needs

• Items for babies or elderly family members including medical supplies and prescriptions.
  
• Pet supplies (food, water, leash, including medical supplies and prescriptions. etc.)

-Additions for Specific Disasters

• Dust masks to filter contaminated air
• Maps of the local area with identified meeting places
• Emergency contact information

-Regular Review and Update

• Regularly check the “go bag” to ensure items are up-to-date and functional
• Replace expired items and adjust the bag’s contents to meet changing needs

Personal Stories Highlight the Importance

Real-life experiences emphasize the necessity of being prepared. Take, for example, our recent scare with the Corral Fire in San Joaquin County. We were fortunate that the wind direction kept the fire from reaching our home, but it was a stark reminder of how quickly things can change. A ‘go bag’ ready meant we could focus on safety rather than scrambling to gather essentials. This experience has reinforced our belief in the importance of being prepared and having a ‘go bag’ ready at all times.

Conclusion

Emergencies can happen at any time, often without warning. Preparing a ‘go bag’ is a simple yet crucial step to protect yourself and your loved ones. The beauty of a ‘go bag’ is that it can be personalized to your specific needs and circumstances, giving you a sense of control and empowerment. Don’t wait for disaster to strike—create your personalized ‘go bag’ today.

Feel free to contact me for further information or your local Fire Department or community for personalized advice and additional tips. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Seeking further information and guidance is essential to stay safe and prepared, and it’s a step towards ensuring the safety of your loved ones.

Remember, it’s always better to be prepared and never need it than to need it and not be prepared.

Stay safe,