WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – If you’re a parent, a teacher, or a coach – or even just a busy person – you probably already have some version of a “Go Bag.”

It may be near the door or in your car, packed with what you’ll need at the park, at work or school. Having what you need already assembled and ready to go just makes sense for folks on the run from one thing to the next.

Having a Go Bag makes even more sense for what you don’t have planned. None of us know when a storm could turn treacherous, toppling trees and flooding streets, or if a lightning-caused wildfire will race our way.

If a fire takes your home or you’re trapped in your vehicle not near home, will you have what you need? According to the folks at Washington State Emergency Management, your Go Bag should include:

  • Food – lightweight, calorie-dense snack bars, nuts, beef jerky
  • Water – at least a liter per person per day (for three days)
  • Clothes – underwear, coats, an extra layer
  • First Aid essentials – and your meds (including for pets)
  • Hygiene basics – toothbrush, toilette wipes, plastic bags
  • Miscellaneous – flashlight, radio, batteries, cell phone and charger, whistle, can-opener, plastic sheeting and duct tape.

It may seem like a long list, but if you pack light and lean it should be manageable to carry. Especially if you pack in whatever works best for you, such as a backpack, duffle, or carryon bag with wheels. (If you have animals, you may want a rolling carrier with storage on top.)

No matter where you end up with your Go Bag – whether it’s getting out of the way of floodwaters or driving vanpool for soccer practice deliveries – these essentials should carry you through the immediate need.

If you’d like more information – including a recommended checklist of contents for your Go Bag – check out this link.

 

Amy Cloud is the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.  She was born and raised locally, leaving for Whitman College and work in Seattle, Knoxville and Washington, D.C. She returned to work as Supervising News Producer and reporter for KVOS-TV’s NewsView before switching to communications for WWU, PeaceHealth and the City of Bellingham. She also co-chairs the Community PIO Group and is a member of the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues.