Emergencies like fires and hurricanes demand fast action and smart preparation. Packing a well-thought-out emergency bag ensures you’re ready for anything. From critical documents to pet essentials and even comfort items, here's expert advice on what to include for yourself, your family, and your pets when disaster strikes.
Start with the Basics: Your Survival Kit Essentials
Jim Cobb, disaster preparedness expert, advises to begin with what one would pack for a long weekend: clothes, toiletries, and prescription medications. However, this should be "different from packing for a road trip," he added: include the critical stuff; digitize your important documents—IDs, insurance information, and even family photos—and store them on a password-protected thumb drive. Pack enough food and water to supply at least 1–2 days of survival time, as well as the "essentials" of a good mask and goggles to protect against smoke exposure. Comfort items should be included like earplugs, puzzle books, and portable radio to keep your morale up in the chaos.
Personal Safety: What You Shouldn't Leave Behind
Samina Taj, of Human Appeal, emphasizes that your emergency bag should include essentials for safety and accessibility. These include your passport or ID, prescription medications, a first aid kit, and ready-to-eat food. Don’t forget basic toiletries like soap and toothpaste. Given the unpredictability of power outages during evacuations, packing a mobile phone, charger, and power bank is vital, as is cash—credit cards won’t work without electricity. Also, pack weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof gear, and throw in a few toys or books for the kids to ease their anxiety.
Don’t Forget Fido: Pet Emergency Prep
Amber Batteiger, animal disaster relief expert, stresses that pets need their own emergency kit. Just like humans, pets are affected by disasters like wildfires and hurricanes. Pack a week’s worth of food, water, collapsible bowls, and any necessary medications. Ensure your pet's collar has updated ID tags and that they're microchipped. Batteiger also recommends including protective gear for your pets—booties to shield their paws from hot debris, pet goggles for eye protection, and a portable water filter in case local supplies are contaminated. Your pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being are just as important as your own.
Fine-Tuning Your Emergency Bag
While the essentials are a must, customizing your emergency bag for your family’s unique needs is key. For families with babies, pack diapers, wipes, and formula. For the elderly or those with special needs, include any necessary medical supplies. Comfort items like familiar toys, favorite blankets, or books for children can help alleviate stress. While it’s impossible to prepare for every possible scenario, starting with a solid foundation and personalizing it for your situation is the best way to ensure you’re ready when disaster strikes.
