Packing Your "Grab and Go" Bag...

I thought it might be a good idea to post what the building in which I work recommends for an Emergency Bag for everyone who works here:


Recommended personal emergency "Grab and Go" kit
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Small tote bag, fanny pack, backpack, soft-sided briefcase or whatever holds the contents of your kit. It is recommended that you not use plastic bags or cardboard boxes to hold your emergency supplies since these can break open if dropped.

Water - Prepackaged emergency water with 5-year shelf life or bottled water. One to two quarts should be sufficient since the anticipated event duration will be hours, not days. However, since you have no idea how long your return trip home could be, this amount may not be enough during the summer months. Another thing to remember is not to throw away your empties on the way home. You may need to refill them. If you are considering prepackaged water in pouches or boxes be sure to protect them. These packages can leak if not stored properly.

Non-perishable foil wrapped food such as snack or high protein bars that are light and easy to carry. You can also buy prepackaged bars with a 5-year shelf life. These bars are high calorie and do not promote thirst. Regardless of what you choose, keeping them in plastic bags or containers helps to reduce the risk of rodent and insect intrusion.

Three day supply of medicines - While everything else on this list is based on the short term, we recommend a 3-day supply of medications, just in case you cannot make it home and end up staying at a friend's house or hotel. Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications. Be sure they are stored to meet instructions on the label and be mindful of expiration dates. It would also be a good idea to have the pharmaceutical name written down inside your kit just in case you cannot remember the exact name or you need medical care.

Small battery operated or solar radio - You may need to walk and not have any way of getting up-to-date information.

Small flashlight.

Extra batteries for your radio and flashlight. If possible buy a radio and flashlight that use the same size batteries so you only have to buy one size and can interchange if you have to.

Light/glow stick (2) to pin to your clothes or carry in case you have to walk in the dark.

Small pocket knife or multi-tool - While you may not know how to use all the tools, it is a good bet someone else will. Any knife or multi tool blade must be under 2½inches in length to comply with prohibitions concerning the possession of weapons in Federal facilities.

Personal toiletries, including toothbrush, non-water hand cleaner, eye drops, etc.

Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, socks, and hat for the season in case you have to walk. These items don't need to be in your kit.

N95 paper mask (2) - These masks are small, light weight and inexpensive. They provide added protection from particulate matter (dust) that may be generated in an explosion.

A pen and small note/phone book with the phone numbers and e-mail addresses of your family, friends and neighbors. While many people carry cell phones and electronic note pads, a hard copy back up never hurts and can take a lot of abuse.

Rain poncho

Blanket

Small first aid kit

Area map

Metal whistle that can be worn around the wrist or neck that can be blown to attract attention if you are trapped or unable to move.

Cash, $50, in small denominations to buy food and gas in case you are unable to use your credit or debit cards. Keep this on your person not in your kit.

Remember, an emergency kit is only intended to meet basic needs, and you are the best judge of what your needs are.

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