What is a Go Bag?
A “Go Bag” is an easy-to-carry bag that holds everything you need if you have to leave in a hurry or in an emergency. Think of it like a small backpack or duffle bag with your essentials.
What to Pack in a Go Bag
Strike a balance between being well prepared and having a Go Bag that’s easy to maintain and carry. Exactly what you pack depends on you and your location (e.g., weather; cash-based economy; availability of food, water, and medicine).
Cal Fire recommended "Go-Bag" contents
- Three-day supply of non perishable food
- Three gallons of water per person
- Map with at least two evacuation routes
- Necessary prescribed medications
- Change of clothes, extra eyeglasses
- Extra set of keys
- Credit cards and cash
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
- Copies of important documents such as passports or birth certificates
- Pet food and water
Only if time allows, consider family photos and other irreplaceable items, computer hard drives and chargers for cell phones and laptops.
Your own Go Bag may have other items, or different Go Bags for each family member. The important thing is to have something prepared, and practice with your family how to evacuate in the event of an emergency.
You may only have a few minutes to evacuate your home in the case of an emergency.
You may be disoriented, or awakened from sleep, and will need to move quickly. Practicing drills with your family will help you follow the plan during a stressful emergency situation.
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