In an era of increasing disasters due to climate change, knowing what to bring during an emergency evacuation can be a matter of safety and comfort for families. A go-bag, or emergency kit, is a valuable asset in ensuring vital supplies are ready when time is of the essence.
Disaster preparedness experts emphasize the significance of assembling a go-bag ahead of time. This proactive approach helps alleviate stress, especially when a natural disaster such as a hurricane or flood looms nearby. Taylor Quinland, a project manager with Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability, stresses the importance of preparedness: “You don’t want to get caught in a situation where you’re suddenly having to think about what you need, when you need it.”
So, what exactly is a go-bag?
A go-bag is essentially a pre-packed kit designed to provide essential items for survival when evacuation becomes necessary. It is intended to sustain a family for up to 72 hours while they relocate, whether to a shelter, friend’s house, or another safe location.
Alyssa Provencio, director of the disaster management certificate program at the University of Central Oklahoma, highlights the urgency that can come with an evacuation: “You may have a few hours to prepare. You may have just a few minutes. That’s when a go-bag is really helpful.”
The core hygiene and survival supplies included in a go-bag should address immediate needs, and while choosing what to include, Jonathan Sury of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University recommends packing items to protect and preserve family well-being during displacement, treating the contents as temporary measures.
However, the assembly of a go-bag should not be an insurmountable task, even for those on a tight budget.
Experts suggest starting with readily available items before purchasing new supplies. Writing down important phone numbers and gathering free resources can be an effective first step. Dr. Wachtendorf advises, “You don’t need survival-grade gear. What are some extra things around the house that you use on a daily basis and can spare to pack up?”
Shopping secondhand for a bag or supplies can also ease financial strain. Community events offering free go-bag items, such as hygiene products or flashlights, can further facilitate preparation.
Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability has recently been proactive in these efforts, distributing mini go-bags at preparedness workshops aimed at educating residents.
Assembling an emergency go-bag is just the beginning, however.
According to Sury, preparedness must extend beyond packing a bag. Having a comprehensive household emergency preparedness plan is crucial. This includes registering for local emergency alerts, like those from ReadyPhiladelphia, and outlining evacuation routes or meeting points for family members.
Moreover, discussions with neighbors about mutual support during emergencies can strengthen community preparedness. Sury emphasizes the importance of communal efforts: “It’s important that we connect with our neighbors and our community members to make sure that we’re not leaving anybody behind — to make sure people have the help that they need.”
As the climate evolves and weather events become more severe, the necessity for preparedness through go-bags and community conversations has never been clearer.
By taking preventative measures and having a plan in place, families can enhance their safety and be better equipped to navigate emergencies as they arise. Now is the time to act, ensuring that families not only survive, but also thrive in resilience against unpredictable challenges posed by climate change.
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