Preparing for Disasters: Preparing a "Go" Bag
As we reinforced in our last Article, it may become necessary to evacuate from your home immediately. In other words, “sheltering in place” may not be a viable option. In these types of scenarios, it might be necessary to survive away from your home for up to 72 hours or longer without assistance. Being prepared for these kinds of immediate evacuations may mean the difference between life and death.
Therefore, it is necessary that you have everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours in a quickly accessible bag that can be brought with you anywhere. Get a sturdy backpack (CORDURA is a preferred fabric- look for double stitching and durable zippers).
Add the following (as your situation may dictate):
• First Aid Kit - a decent well-stocked kit, including a couple of weeks' supply of any prescription medications you need. Also include pharmaceutical grade crazy (skin) glue.
• Sewing Kit. Include in this non-waxed floss and a U-shaped leather needle.
• Female Hygiene Pads - these absorb blood - can be used as a bandage if needed and also are sanitary product items if needed.
• Cash – credit cards and checks will be useless during a disaster
• Clothing - cotton is useless once it gets wet (often from sweat). Consider wool
• Blankets - to keep you warm. Consider a Mylar emergency blanket, which is lightweight and packs up small.
• Crank style Flashlight and snap lights such as glow-sticks.
• Whistle - good for locating people in a crowd, at night, or in low visibility conditions. Devise an easy-to-remember signal with family members and loved ones, so that they can recognize your whistle and make their way toward you. Add a lanyard or chain so it's always with you.
• Crank style weather / AM-FM Radio.
• Food – remember previous article.
• Water - to drink
• Means to purify water (iodine, chlorine, filter, UV light source etc.)
• Goggles - protect your eyes! Best if heavy-duty "soft side" vinyl with ventilation, fogless lenses, and adjustable strap.
• Lighter and matches - don't use matches (waterproof cases)
• Other Fire starting aids, such as a magnifying glass, magnesium "fire starters", info to build primitive fire starting devices, similar devices as the need arises. Cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly are very useful.
• Rope - has endless uses, choose various sizes (rubber bands, too)
• Crow Bar- in case the emergency has caused your path to be blocked.
• Big trash Bags - poncho, cut open to make a tent
• Multi-Use knife/tool.
• Signal Mirror and Flares
• Duct tape
• Plastic sheeting
• Copies of passport, driver's license, insurance, and any other important documents
• Maps and GPS/Compass
• Toiletries.
• Identification
• Keep a note pad and a pen in case you need to leave a note for family to let them know where you went or where to meet.
• At least one wallet size photo of your immediate family, children, or pets. This is crucial in case you get separated and need to enlist the help of others to find your loved ones.
• Gel antibacterial hand wash (non rinse) available at any pharmacy and most supermarkets and convenience stores, for cleaning hands and even wounds.
• A Comfortable sturdy pair of shoes and a pair of socks.
• A pair of leather work gloves.
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