Every Family Needs an Emergency ‘Go Bag’ — Here’s What to Include

In today’s unpredictable world, every household should have an emergency ‘go bag’ ready for quick evacuation. Whether it’s a natural disaster or another unexpected event, being prepared can make all the difference. Here’s a guide on what to include in your go bag to ensure your family’s safety.

The Essentials for Your Go Bag

As someone who takes pride in being organized, I have multiple bags strategically placed around my home, all stocked with the same essentials. For instance, I have a vibrant tote bag filled with necessities that mirror those in my everyday backpack. This may seem excessive, but I find comfort in knowing I’m always prepared with items like hand sanitizer, face masks, lotion, and earbuds.

However, when a crisis strikes, your priorities shift. Imagine experiencing a devastating wildfire, as many have in California and Oregon. The reality is that disasters can happen at any moment, underscoring the importance of having a well-thought-out emergency bag.

What to Include in Your Go Bag

Start by gathering important documents in a waterproof Ziploc bag. This should include:

Passports for each family member
An extra debit card and cash
Keys to your vehicle and home
Face masks
Birth certificates
Phone chargers

Once your documents are secure, select a durable bag that can withstand harsh conditions. Remember, while aesthetics are nice, the primary goal is functionality and protection.

Next, fill your bag with essential items such as:

Medications
Spare glasses or contact lenses
Personal hygiene products
Non-perishable snacks (like travel-sized cereal or nuts)
A few bottles of water
A compact flashlight with extra batteries
Baby wipes (a lifesaver in emergencies)

Keep in mind that your go bag should only contain necessities—think practical items like clothing and toiletries rather than entertainment or luxury items. As Tara Parker-Pope wisely states, “If I need my go bag, it’s because I have a short-term emergency, not because it’s the end of civilization as we know it.”

Family-Specific Considerations

Consider whether to create a family go bag or individual bags for each child. Trust me, kids might forget their bags in the chaos of an emergency. A single family bag may be your best option. Additionally, if you have specific dietary needs or pets, don’t forget to cater to those as well when preparing your go bag.

No one wants to think about the possibility of facing a natural disaster, but preparedness can bring peace of mind. So, don’t delay—start assembling your emergency ‘go bag’ today.

For more insights on family preparation, check out our post on home insemination and visit Make a Mom for authoritative resources on home insemination. Also, for comprehensive information on pregnancy, the CDC’s pregnancy page is an excellent resource.

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Summary

In summary, every family should be equipped with a well-stocked emergency ‘go bag’ containing essential documents, survival items, and personal necessities. This preparation can provide peace of mind in the face of unexpected disasters.