PSA: Get Your GO BAG Ready!

Emergency Planning

Jun 16

As I was coming over the hill this morning, heading home after taking my dogs to Lake Sonoma, I saw a plume of smoke rising from the next town over. My heart started racing. I realized I STILL have not finished putting together my emergency evacuation kits for this year. I keep telling myself I will get it done over the weekend, yet somehow, I forget. Fortunately, this fire is a controlled burn, but it lit a fire under my booty to get my Go Bags ready.

I live in California, where wildfires are all too common in the searing summer season. Even though we were inundated with rain this winter and some areas are still flooded, the temps here are rising and all of the lush green grasses are quickly turning into dry kindling for wildfires.

A few months after moving to Cloverdale in 2020, the Walbridge Fire broke out and was a mere 12 miles from us. I remember watching the 747 SuperTanker circle over my house as it made its way toward the fire. We were under an evacuation warning and were ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

My life now is a bit more complicated. When it was just my boyfriend and me with one car, we could be out the door in less than 30 minutes. Now, with two dogs, two cats, and two vehicles, it’s a bit more complicated. Not only do I have to prepare to evacuate myself, but I also need to have supplies and a game plan to get my fur babies out safely and have a pre-planned meeting place if my boyfriend and I get separated.

This is my primary project this weekend!

If you live in an area prone to fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes, then I hope you have your evacuation plans and go bags ready!

Here are some of my evacuation planning resources. I hope they help you get ready in case of an emergency!

Standard Emergency Kit

Pack a three-day supply of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and ready-to-eat meals.
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day, and aim for a 72-hour supply.
Include a sufficient amount of prescription medications you or your family members may need, along with any necessary medical supplies.
Prepare a well-stocked first aid kit containing bandages, disinfectant, pain relievers, antiseptic ointment, gloves, and any specific items for your family's needs.
Pack items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, menstrual products, and any other essential personal hygiene items.
Include a flashlight with extra batteries or opt for a hand-cranked flashlight, which doesn't require batteries.
Pack a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to stay informed about the latest updates and emergency broadcasts.
Keep a portable charger or a solar-powered charger to ensure you can charge your cell phone during power outages. KEEP IT CHARGED!
Pack a change of clothes, including warm layers, socks, and sturdy shoes. Consider including pillows, blankets or sleeping bags for comfort.
Keep some cash in small denominations and store copies of essential documents like identification, passports, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof bag.
Include a Swiss Army knife or a multi-tool kit that can serve various purposes. Keep a whistle to signal for help in case of an emergency.
Include local maps, emergency contact numbers, and any relevant information about evacuation routes or shelters.
Pack a few items like books, games, or puzzles to help pass the time and keep morale up.

Pet Emergency Kit

Pack a sufficient amount of your pet's regular food that can last for at least three days. Store it in a waterproof container or bag. Aim for one gallon per pet per day, and ensure you have enough for at least three days. Also, carry portable food and water bowls.
If your pet requires any medications, pack a supply that will last for several days. Additionally, keep a copy of their medical records, including vaccination records, in a waterproof bag. Have a list of important phone numbers, including your veterinarian's contact details, nearby animal shelters, and emergency veterinary clinics.
Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with identification tags that include your contact information. Have an extra leash and collar as a backup.
Have a sturdy and secure carrier or crate for each pet. Make sure it fits in your vehicle and is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Familiarize your pet with the carrier beforehand.
Pack bedding or blankets to provide comfort and warmth for your pets during evacuation.
If you have cats, pack a sufficient amount of cat litter and a portable litter box. For dogs, carry waste bags for proper disposal.
Include a few of your pet's favorite toys or comfort items to help reduce stress and provide familiarity during challenging times.
Keep current photos of your pets along with their descriptions. These will be helpful if you get separated and need to make identification posters or provide information to shelters.
Prepare a pet-specific first aid kit that includes items such as gauze, bandages, hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic ointment, pet-safe pain relievers, and any prescribed medications.
Depending on your pets' needs, pack any additional supplies they require, such as pet diapers, flea and tick preventives, grooming tools, or special dietary items.