Pack the things you would want if you had to leave in a hurry.
- Use a backpack or something sturdy
- Copy important documents — insurance cards, birth certificates, deeds, photo IDs, proof of address — and keep them in a waterproof zipper bag
- Extra set of house and car keys
- Copies of ATM/credit cards
- Cash (in small bills!)
- Bottled water and energy bars
- An LED flashlight
- Battery-operated or hand-cranked AM/FM radio
- Batteries and chargers
- List of your medications and dosages (for everyone in your house)
- First-aid kit
- Toiletries
- Notepad and pen
- Contact and meeting place for your household and a regional map
- Lightweight raingear or cover and a Mylar blanket
- Items to comfort you in a stressful situation
- If you have a disability or access and functional need, make a plan that will meet your needs. Some common items to pack include:
- Back-up medical equipment, like glasses or canes
- An emergency health information card (listing your name, address, emergency contact, and relevant medical information like medications you take)
- Supplies for your service animal
Everyone should have a Go Bag — and make sure your Go Bag meets your personal needs.
Pets need Go Bags, too!
They should include:
- A current color photo of you and your pet (in case you’re separated)
- Copies of medical and vaccination records
- Proof of registration/ID information, adoption, proof of purchase and microchip information
- Physical description of your pet, including species, breed, age, sex, color, distinguishing traits, and any other vital information about characteristics and behavior
- Animal first aid kit, including flea and tick treatment and other items recommended by your veterinarian
- Food and water for at least three days
- Food and water dishes
- Collapsible cage or carrier
- Muzzle* and sturdy leash
(*Note: Nylon muzzles should only be used temporarily as they can restrict a dog’s ability to pant) - Cotton sheet to place over the carrier to help keep your pet calm
- Comforting toys or treats
- Litter, litter pan, and litter scoop
- Plastic bags for cleanup