Assembling a get away bag, also known as a 72-hour kit or bug-out bag, is a crucial step in preparing for emergency situations such as natural disasters, power outages, or other crises that may require quick evacuation. The primary goal of a get away bag is to provide individuals with the necessary items to survive for at least 72 hours without relying on external resources. In this article, we will discuss the essential items to include in a get away bag, ensuring that you and your loved ones are prepared for any unexpected event.
Understanding the Importance of a Get Away Bag
A get away bag is not just a collection of random items thrown into a bag; it is a carefully curated assortment of essential supplies that can help individuals survive and thrive in emergency situations. Having a get away bag can be a lifesaver, providing you with the necessary tools and resources to navigate through challenging circumstances. Whether you are facing a natural disaster, a power outage, or any other type of emergency, a well-stocked get away bag can help you stay safe, warm, and nourished until help arrives or until you can reach a secure location.
Key Considerations When Assembling a Get Away Bag
When assembling a get away bag, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, the bag should be easy to carry and accessible, in case you need to leave quickly. It is also essential to consider the needs of all family members, including children, pets, and individuals with special requirements. Additionally, the bag should be tailored to your specific environment and climate, taking into account factors such as weather, terrain, and potential hazards.
Environment and Climate Considerations
The items you include in your get away bag will depend on your geographical location and the types of emergencies that are most likely to occur in your area. For example, if you live in an area prone to hurricanes or flooding, you may want to include items such as a waterproof bag, a life jacket, or a poncho. If you live in a cold climate, you may want to include warm clothing, a blanket, or a portable heater. Understanding your environment and climate is crucial in determining the types of items to include in your get away bag.
Essential Items to Include in a Get Away Bag
A get away bag should include a variety of essential items that can help you survive and thrive in emergency situations. These items can be divided into several categories, including food, water, shelter, first aid, and communication. It is essential to include a mix of items that can provide sustenance, comfort, and safety. Some of the most critical items to include in a get away bag are:
- Water: at least 1 gallon per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene
- Non-perishable food: energy bars, canned goods, or MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
- First aid kit: including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications
- Shelter: a tent, tarp, or blanket to provide protection from the elements
- Communication: a cell phone, two-way radio, or whistle to call for help
Additional Items to Consider
In addition to the essential items listed above, there are several other items that you may want to consider including in your get away bag. These items can provide comfort, convenience, and additional safety features. Some examples include:
Personal Hygiene Items
Personal hygiene items, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap, can help maintain personal health and dignity in emergency situations. These items can also help prevent the spread of disease and infection. Other personal hygiene items to consider include feminine hygiene products, moist towelettes, and garbage bags.
Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment, such as a multi-tool, a flashlight, or a portable stove, can provide additional functionality and safety features. These items can help you navigate, prepare food, and signal for help. Other tools and equipment to consider include a map, a compass, and a fire starter.
Assembling and Maintaining a Get Away Bag
Assembling and maintaining a get away bag requires careful planning and attention to detail. It is essential to regularly check and update the contents of your bag to ensure that all items are still usable and not expired. You should also consider the following tips when assembling and maintaining a get away bag:
Checking and Updating the Contents
Checking and updating the contents of your get away bag on a regular basis is crucial to ensure that all items are still usable and not expired. You should check your bag at least once a year, and update the contents as necessary. This can include replacing expired food and water, updating your first aid kit, and ensuring that all tools and equipment are still functional.
Storing the Bag
Storing the bag in an easily accessible location is essential, in case you need to leave quickly. You should store the bag in a dry, secure location, such as a closet or under a bed. It is also a good idea to keep the bag in a location that is easy to remember, such as near the front door or in a designated emergency area.
In conclusion, a get away bag is a crucial component of emergency preparedness, providing individuals with the necessary items to survive and thrive in emergency situations. By including a mix of essential items, such as food, water, shelter, first aid, and communication, you can help ensure your safety and well-being until help arrives or until you can reach a secure location. Remember to regularly check and update the contents of your bag, and store it in an easily accessible location. With a well-stocked get away bag, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are prepared for any unexpected event.
What is a Get Away Bag and Why is it Important to Have One?
A Get Away Bag, also known as a 72-hour kit or emergency evacuation bag, is a portable collection of essential items that can help individuals and families survive for at least three days in the event of a natural disaster, power outage, or other emergency situation. Having a Get Away Bag is crucial because it allows people to quickly grab the necessary supplies and leave their homes or areas in a short amount of time, reducing the risk of injury or harm. This bag should be easily accessible, preferably stored in a convenient location, and its contents should be checked and updated regularly to ensure they remain relevant and useful.
The importance of a Get Away Bag lies in its ability to provide individuals with the necessary tools and resources to sustain themselves during the initial stages of an emergency. This bag can help people navigate through challenging situations, such as finding shelter, accessing clean water and food, and communicating with loved ones. By having a Get Away Bag, individuals can take a proactive approach to emergency preparedness, reducing their reliance on external aid and increasing their chances of staying safe until help arrives or the situation stabilizes. It is essential to note that the specific items included in a Get Away Bag may vary depending on the individual’s or family’s needs, the type of emergencies that may occur in their area, and the climate and environment they live in.
What are the Essential Items to Include in a Get Away Bag?
The essential items to include in a Get Away Bag can be broadly categorized into several groups, including food, water, first aid, shelter, communication, and personal documents. Non-perishable food items, such as energy bars, canned goods, and MREs, should be included, along with a manual can opener and a water purification system or water bottles. A first aid kit should contain basic medical supplies, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. A portable shelter, such as a tent or tarpaulin, and a sleeping bag or blanket can provide protection from the elements.
In addition to these basic necessities, a Get Away Bag should also include communication devices, such as a cell phone with a charger and back-up power source, a two-way radio, or a whistle to signal for help. Personal documents, including identification, insurance cards, and copies of important papers, should be stored in a waterproof container to ensure they remain accessible and intact. Other items, such as a multi-tool, flashlight, and extra batteries, can also be useful in emergency situations. It is crucial to regularly review and update the contents of the Get Away Bag to ensure that all items are still usable and relevant, and that the bag remains easily accessible and portable.
How Often Should I Update and Check My Get Away Bag?
It is recommended to update and check the Get Away Bag at least twice a year, preferably during seasonal changes, to ensure that all items remain usable and relevant. This regular maintenance can help identify expired or damaged items, such as food, water, and medical supplies, which should be replaced or updated accordingly. Additionally, this is an opportunity to review the bag’s contents and make any necessary adjustments based on changes in personal circumstances, such as the addition of new family members or the development of new medical conditions.
During the update process, it is essential to check the expiration dates of food and medical supplies, test communication devices and other equipment, and ensure that all items are still in working condition. It is also a good idea to practice using the items in the Get Away Bag to become familiar with their operation and to identify any potential issues or deficiencies. By regularly updating and checking the Get Away Bag, individuals can ensure that they are prepared for emergency situations and that their bag remains a valuable resource in times of need.
What Should I Consider When Packing a Get Away Bag for a Family?
When packing a Get Away Bag for a family, it is essential to consider the unique needs and requirements of each family member, including children, infants, and pets. This may involve including items such as diapers, formula, baby wipes, and child-friendly food and entertainment, as well as pet food, water, and any necessary medication. It is also crucial to ensure that the bag is easily accessible and can be carried by an adult or older child, as it may be necessary to evacuate quickly.
In addition to considering the physical needs of family members, it is also important to think about their emotional and psychological well-being. This may involve including items such as comfort objects, games, and books to help distract and reassure children during emergency situations. It is also a good idea to include a family communication plan, which outlines how to contact each other in the event of separation, as well as a meeting point and contact information for a trusted friend or family member outside the affected area.
Can I Customize My Get Away Bag to Suit My Specific Needs?
Yes, it is possible to customize a Get Away Bag to suit specific needs and circumstances. Individuals with medical conditions, such as diabetes or allergies, may need to include additional items, such as medication, medical equipment, or emergency contact information. Similarly, people who live in areas prone to specific types of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, may need to include items that are tailored to those situations, such as a battery-powered radio or a whistle to signal for help.
Customizing a Get Away Bag can also involve including personal items that are essential for daily life, such as glasses, contact lenses, or a hearing aid. It is also a good idea to consider the skills and abilities of the individuals who will be using the bag, as well as any language or cultural barriers that may need to be addressed. By tailoring the contents of the Get Away Bag to specific needs and circumstances, individuals can increase their chances of staying safe and healthy during emergency situations.
How Should I Store My Get Away Bag to Ensure it Remains Accessible?
A Get Away Bag should be stored in a location that is easily accessible and can be quickly grabbed in the event of an emergency. This may involve storing the bag in a designated area, such as a closet or cupboard, or in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or safe. It is essential to ensure that the bag is not too heavy or cumbersome, as it may need to be carried for an extended period.
The storage location should also be well-known to all family members, and the bag should be checked regularly to ensure that it remains easily accessible and that the contents have not been tampered with or expired. It is also a good idea to store a smaller, secondary bag in a vehicle or at work, which can provide a backup in case the primary bag is inaccessible. By storing the Get Away Bag in a secure and accessible location, individuals can ensure that they are prepared for emergency situations and can quickly respond to changing circumstances.
What are the Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Get Away Bag?
One of the most common mistakes to avoid when creating a Get Away Bag is failing to update the contents regularly, which can lead to expired or damaged items. Another mistake is not considering the specific needs and circumstances of all family members, including children, infants, and pets. It is also essential to avoid overloading the bag with too many items, as this can make it difficult to carry and may lead to important items being left behind.
Other common mistakes include not testing communication devices and other equipment, not practicing using the items in the Get Away Bag, and not storing the bag in an easily accessible location. Additionally, individuals should avoid assuming that they will have access to certain resources or services during an emergency, and should instead plan for self-sufficiency and independence. By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can create a Get Away Bag that is effective, reliable, and tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.