14/10/2025
GO BAG is essential for any emergency or sudden evacuation.
Here are comprehensive lists of essential items for a 72-hour period.
1. The INDIVIDUAL/ADULT Go Bag (72 Hours)
This bag should be light enough for you to carry comfortably and serve as your base survival kit.
Essentials:
WATER: At least 3 liters (1 gallon is ideal) of bottled water per person.
FOOD: Non-perishable, high-calorie food (e.g., energy bars, ready-to-eat pouches, dried fruit, nuts).
FIRST AID KIT: A well-stocked kit with pain relievers, bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and any personal prescription medications (at least a week's supply).
Personal & Hygiene:
• Sanitation: Hand sanitizer, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products.
• Clothing: A complete change of durable, weather-appropriate clothing, including sturdy shoes, socks, a hat, and gloves.
• Important Documents: Copies of IDs, passports, insurance policies, birth certificates, and a list of emergency contacts, all sealed in a waterproof bag or container.
Tools & Gear:
• Light: Flashlight with extra batteries, or a crank-powered light.
• Communication: A NOAA weather radio/hand-crank radio (that can also charge a phone).
• Navigation: Local map and a compass (if you know how to use one).
• Multitool/Knife: A sturdy utility knife or multi-tool.
• Cash: Small bills and coins, as ATMs may not be functional.
2. GO BAG FOR KIDS (Add-ons to the Adult Bag)
The child's bag focuses on comfort, distraction, and their specific medical needs. Do not rely on children to carry these items for long distances.
Comfort & Care:
• Familiar Items: A small blanket, favorite small toy, book, or stuffed animal to provide comfort and familiarity.
• ID Card: A card in their bag/pocket with their name, your name, and your phone number.
• Specifics: Diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, or child-specific medications (e.g., an EpiPen, inhaler).
• Snacks: Comfort snacks they enjoy that are non-perishable (e.g., crackers, fruit leather).
• Entertainment: Small notepad and crayons, a deck of cards, or a compact book.
Clothing:
• A sturdy, labeled bag with a complete change of clothes, including a warm layer, appropriate for their size.
3. GO BAG FOR ELDERLY/SPECIFIC NEEDS (Add-ons)
Medical & Health:
• Prescription Medications: A minimum 7-day supply of all regular medications, clearly labeled. Include a copy of the prescription and doctor’s contact info.
• Mobility Aids: Extra batteries for hearing aids or power wheelchairs; a small, sturdy cane or walker (if applicable).
• Vision Aids: Spare glasses or contact lenses and solution.
• Medical Documents: A list of chronic conditions, allergies, medication names, dosages, and pharmacy contact information.
Food & Comfort:
• Dietary Needs: Easy-to-chew, soft, or specific dietary foods (e.g., protein drinks, pureed food).
• Pill Organizer: A pre-filled daily pill organizer.
• Incontinence: Adult diapers or protective pads, if necessary.
4. GO BAG FOR PETS (Cats & Dogs)
Your pet's survival depends entirely on the planning you do for them. Pack their items in a separate, labeled carrier or bag.
Pet Essentials:
• Food & Water: At least a 3-day supply of dry food (rotate it regularly) and water, plus non-spill bowls.
• Medication: Any required pet medication and a copy of their vet records.
• Leash & Harness: A sturdy leash, collar/harness, and their current ID tags.
• Carrier/Crate: A lightweight, secured, and appropriately sized carrier or crate with familiar bedding. This is critical for shelters.
• Sanitation: Litter and a pan (for cats), plastic bags for waste cleanup (for dogs).
Identification & Comfort:
• Photos & Records: A recent photo of you with your pet (for identification if you become separated) and a copy of their vaccination records and microchip information.
• Toys: A favorite chew toy or small, comforting blanket.
ACTION ITEMS: MAINTAINING YOUR BAG
Once you build your bags, follow these steps:
1. Storage Location: Keep all bags in a cool, dry, and easily accessible location (e.g., a hall closet, near an exit door).
2. Date and Rotate: Check expiration dates on food, water, and medications every six months (e.g., when daylight savings time changes).
3. Review: Update documents and clothing sizes (especially for kids) at least once a year.
4. Practice: Conduct an evacuation drill with your family so everyone knows where the bags are and what to do.
