September is National Preparedness Month: Building Your Family’s “Go Bag”

September is National Preparedness Month, a time set aside to remind families, neighbors, and communities to be ready for the unexpected. Whether it’s a wildfire, earthquake, flood, or even a prolonged power outage, having a plan in place can make all the difference when every minute counts. At the heart of this readiness is something simple but vital: a “Go Bag.”

What is a Go Bag?

A “Go Bag” is an emergency kit packed with the essentials you and your loved ones may need if you have to leave home quickly. Think of it as your personal safety net—something that provides food, water, first-aid, and peace of mind while you focus on keeping your family safe.

Every member of your household—including children, elderly relatives, and even pets—should have their own Go Bag. Emergencies are stressful enough without scrambling for necessities at the last moment.

Why It’s Important

Having a Go Bag ready is about preparedness and independence. When disaster strikes, emergency services may be overwhelmed or delayed. By keeping your essentials within reach, you give your family a head start and reduce the burden on first responders.

In short: a Go Bag isn’t just a convenience—it’s a responsibility we owe to ourselves, our families, and our community.

What to Include in Your Go Bag

Here’s a checklist to guide you in building a reliable kit:

• Water: At least one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply minimum).

• Food: Non-perishable items like energy bars, canned goods, or ready-to-eat meals.

• Clothing: Sturdy shoes, change of clothes, extra socks, and a jacket.

• First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, prescription medications, and any special medical needs.

• Important Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance papers, bank information, and emergency contacts in a waterproof pouch.

• Communication Tools: Portable phone charger, extra batteries, and a flashlight.

• Hygiene Items: Soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrush/paste, feminine products, and baby supplies if needed.

• Cash: Small bills, since ATMs and card readers may not work.

• Personal Items: Glasses, hearing aids, spare keys, and comfort items for kids (toys, books).

• Pet Supplies: Food, leash, carrier, and vaccination records.

Building Maintaining Your Go Bag

1. Personalize It: Every household is unique—add what’s necessary for your family’s medical, dietary, or age-specific needs.

2. Keep It Accessible: Store bags near the front door, in a closet, or even in your car. Time is critical in an emergency.

3. Review Regularly: Update kits every six months. Replace expired food, adjust clothing for the season, and update documents as needed.

4. Practice Together: Walk through your family evacuation plan. Knowing where the bags are and how to use them makes a stressful moment smoother.