A component of your disaster kit is your Go-bag. Put the following items together in a backpack or another easy to carry container in case you must evacuate quickly. Prepare one Go-bag for each family member and make sure each has an I.D. tag. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car or at work, considering what you would need for your immediate safety.
- Flashlight
- Radio – battery operated
- Batteries
- Whistle
- Dust masks
- Pocket knife
- Emergency cash in small denominations and quarters for phone calls
- Sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, and a warm hat
- Local map
- Some water and food
- Permanent marker, paper and tape
- Photos of family members and pets for re-identification purposes
- List of emergency contact phone numbers
- List of allergies to any drug (especially antibiotics) or food
- Copy of health insurance, identification cards, ATM & credit cards, passports, etc.
- Extra prescription eye glasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items
- Prescription medications
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Extra keys to your house and vehicle
- Trash bags, toilet paper
- Matches
- First aid kit
- Any special-needs items for children, seniors or people with disabilities.
- Don’t forget to make a Go-bag for your pets.
This message is brought to you by The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program, which educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.
Find out more about this program at Redwood City’s CERT website