Go Bag

A component of your Disaster Kit is your Go-bag. Put the following items together in a backpack or another easy to carry container in case you must evacuate quickly. Prepare one Go-bag for each family member and make sure each has an I.D. tag. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car and at work, considering what you would need for your immediate safety.

  • Flashlight
  • Radio – battery operated
  • Batteries
  • Whistle
  • Dust mask
  • Pocket knife
  • Extra set of car and house keys 
  • Emergency cash in small denominations and quarters for phone calls 
  • Sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, and a warm hat 
  • Local map 
  • Some water and food 
  • Permanent marker, paper and tape 
  • Photos of family members and pets for re-identification purposes 
  • List of emergency point-of -contact phone numbers 
  • List of allergies to any drug (especially antibiotics) or food 
  • Copy of health insurance and identification cards 
  • Extra prescription eye glasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items 
  • Prescription medications and first aid supplies 
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste 
  • Any special-needs items for children, seniors or people with disabilities. Don’t forget to make a Go-bag for your pets. 
  • Copies of your important documents in a waterproof and portable container (insurance cards, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.) 
  • Credit and ATM cards and cash, especially in small denominations. We recommend you keep at least $50-$100 on hand. 
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food such as energy or granola bars 
  • Flashlight, battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries. You can also buy wind-up radios that do not require batteries at retail stores. 
  • Medication and other essential personal items. Be sure to refill medications before they expire. Keep a list of the medications each member of your household takes, why they take them, and their dosages. 
  • First Aid kit 
  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes, lightweight raingear, and a mylar blanket 
  • Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map 
  • Child care supplies or other special care items

Get more information at Ready.gov.