Emergency Readiness: What to Take and How to Prepare

When natural disasters strike, being prepared is essential. Whether it's a wildfire, earthquake, or flood, knowing what to take, how to stay informed, and having the right documentation can make all the difference in keeping your family safe and protecting your home. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you are ready when the time comes to evacuate.

Stay Informed

Before anything else, sign up to receive evacuation notices from your local authorities. These alerts will keep you informed about evacuation routes, shelters, and other critical updates. For example, in San Diego County, you can sign up with the Genasys Protect app. Check local resources in your area for the best way to stay connected.

The Cal Fire Go Bag Essentials

The The Cal Fire Go Bag is designed for quick evacuations. It’s crucial to have everything ready to go so you can leave in a hurry:

Water: Three gallons per person for three days.
Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable food.
Evacuation Map: Two evacuation routes marked.
Prescriptions: Make sure you have any necessary medications.
Clothing: A change of clothes and extra eyeglasses/contact lenses.
Cash & Cards: Extra car keys, credit cards, cash, or traveler's checks.
First Aid Kit & Sanitation Supplies: Including a flashlight and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries.
Important Documents: Copies of important documents like birth certificates, passports, etc.
Pet Supplies: Pet food and water.

One Important Note: Keep Your Identification Handy
It's also essential to have an official identification card with your picture and current address. In the event your neighborhood is blocked from entry when you're allowed back in, authorities may require you to show proof of residence to return to your home. This could be a driver's license, state-issued ID, or another form of official identification that includes your photo and address.

Additional Items (Time permitting):

Valuables that are easy to carry
Family photos and irreplaceable items
Personal computer data on hard drives or disks
Chargers for phones, laptops, and other electronics

Ready.Gov's Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

Ready.gov recommends a Basic Disaster Supplies Kit for every household. Here’s what to include:

Water: One gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food: A supply of non-perishable food for at least several days.
Radio: Battery-powered or hand crank radio, and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
Flashlight & Batteries: Ensure you have a reliable flashlight and extra batteries.
First Aid Kit: Pack one with basic medical supplies.
Whistle: To signal for help.
Mask: To help filter contaminated air.
Shelter Supplies: Plastic sheeting, scissors, and duct tape in case you need to shelter in place.
Sanitation: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal hygiene.
Tools: Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, a manual can opener, and local maps.
Phone: Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery.

Additional Emergency Supplies:

Medications: Prescription and non-prescription meds, vitamins, and extra contact lenses.
Infant & Pet Supplies: Formula, diapers, wipes, and pet food.
Cash & Documents: Store important family documents (insurance, ID, bank accounts) in a waterproof container.
Warmth & Comfort: Sleeping bag or warm blankets, sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, and feminine hygiene supplies.
Fire Extinguisher: A small fire extinguisher can be lifesaving.
Matches: Store in a waterproof container.

Emergency Kit for the Car

Your car should also be ready for emergencies, with an emergency kit including:

Jumper Cables & Flares
Ice Scraper & Car Cell Phone Charger
Blanket & Map
Cat Litter or Sand (For better tire traction)

Emergency Evacuation Timing: What to Take Based on Warning Time

The following lists outline items to pack depending on how much time you have when a warning is issued. These lists were not created by me, and the source is unknown. They should be used as general guidelines, and it’s important for you to assess your unique situation and adjust accordingly. The Cal Fire and Ready.gov recommendations are official sources, and I encourage you to check with local authorities for the most relevant advice.

15-Minute Warning:

Wallet, purse, keys, glasses
Cell phones and chargers
Emergency cash/credit card
Pets, carriers, leashes, medicines
Clothes, shoes, coats (if needed)
Hearing aids and medications
Flashlights and extra batteries
Safety deposit box key
Checkbooks, ID cards (with your current address), passports
Face masks

30-Minute Warning:

Everything from the 15-minute list, plus:
Pillows, sleeping bags, blankets
Address book/phone list
Jewelry, small valuables, personal items
Personal hygiene items
Other medications/supplements
Pet food, bedding, and litter
Children's toys, books, etc.
Battery radio and extra batteries
Toilet paper, hand wipes, and sanitizer
First aid kit
Clothing for 3 days
Gallon jugs of drinking water

1-Hour Warning:

Everything from the 15-minute and 30-minute lists, plus:
Take or safeguard guns and ammo
Ice cooler with food and drinks
Important personal records (birth certificates)
Gloves and personal protective equipment
Disposable eating utensils and plates
School items
Licenses, vehicle titles, deeds, insurance papers
Wills, power of attorney, and financial documents
Family photos and bank numbers

2+ Hour Warning:

Everything from the 15-minute, 30-minute, and 1-hour lists, plus:
Family photos, artwork, military records, and mementos
Luggage (packed)
Valuable electronics and cameras
Camping gear and tent
Journals, diaries

Conclusion: Be Prepared

Preparing for an emergency isn't just about packing a bag. It’s about having a plan in place and knowing what to do when the time comes. By staying informed, having an emergency kit ready, and being organized with important documents, you can protect your loved ones and be ready to face any disaster that comes your way.

Feel free to pass this onto your friends and loved ones!