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Preparing for emergencies is often something people delay, but with the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles County, California, the urgency of being ready to evacuate immediately during a natural disaster or other catastrophic events has become more evident than ever.
To ensure safety during an unexpected crisis, consider assembling a go-bag—a portable kit filled with essential supplies. While the contents may differ based on individual requirements, experts generally recommend including several key items.
Food Supplies to Include in Your Go-Bag
While you shouldn’t turn your go-bag into a portable supermarket, it’s crucial to pack at least a three-day supply of food and one gallon of water per person daily. Avoid tossing in random snacks like chips or Lunchables from your pantry. Instead, focus on nutritious, non-perishable items such as tuna pouches, canned beans (remember a manual can opener!), and protein or granola bars.
Consider adding pre-packaged nuts, trail mix, beef jerky, and peanut butter for their high protein content, which provides sustained energy. Don’t forget ample water for hydration and sanitation. If carrying large water bottles is impractical, include water-purifying tablets, compact filters, or a reusable filtered water bottle.
Essential Tools and Supplies to Pack
Your go-bag should also contain a prepackaged first aid kit (enhanced with your prescription medications), an emergency whistle, a wrench or pliers for utility shut-offs, a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery- or hand-powered radio, and a NOAA Weather Radio with alerts. These items are typically found at outdoor or big-box stores.
Don’t overlook less obvious yet vital supplies: a dust mask for filtering polluted air, plastic sheeting and duct tape for temporary shelter, and wet wipes, trash bags, and plastic ties to maintain hygiene when regular facilities are unavailable.
Is It Wise to Depend Solely on Smartphones?
In short? No. While smartphones are invaluable during emergencies, they shouldn’t be your only resource. Include traditional paper maps, extra chargers, and spare phone batteries in your kit. This ensures you won’t be left stranded if service drops or navigation apps fail.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Bag
When selecting your go-bag (it must be sturdy yet light), prioritize one with a waterproof compartment for storing cash, credit cards, and critical documents like passport copies, visas, driver’s license, and certificates for marriage, birth, adoption, or naturalization. If you have pets or care for elderly family members, consider preparing a separate bag tailored to their needs.
These go-bag recommendations are essential but not exhaustive. Customize your kit by adding or adjusting items as necessary. Since emergencies can occur unexpectedly, prepare three go-bags: one for home, one for work, and one for your car. While you may never need them, having them ready ensures peace of mind.
This article was initially published in 2017 and has been revised for 2025.
