Each household member should have his or her own Go-bag as a part of the Household Disaster Kit. Go-bags are designed for use:

• At home, so you can remain in place even without utilities
• If you must evacuate your home; or
• If you cannot return home.
• These are in addition to your winter Vehicle Kit. (See: Winter Weather)

Because you may be away from home when disaster strikes, you are advised to keep a Go-bag at work and in your vehicle. Every Go-bag should include:

• Food and water for one week (as much as you can practically carry) Water needs are one gallon per person per day
• Portable radio and extra batteries or one that hand cranks
• Emergency lighting (e.g. glow sticks, flashlight, headlamp) and extra batteries, or one that hand cranks
• First aid kit and handbook
• 14-day supply of any medications you take regularly and a copy of your prescriptions
• Whistle (to alert rescuers to your location)
• Change of clothing and a hat and gloves
• Sturdy shoes, in case an evacuation requires walking long distances
• Personal hygiene supplies (including toilet paper)
• Dust mask: NIOSH approved for fine particulates
• Large garbage bags and paper towels
• Pen, paper and tape
• Cash in small denominations, traveler checks, etc.
• Copy of documents: health insurance card, driver license or identification card
• A computer jump drive with deed to house, insurance policy, birth certificate, passport, household inventory, vehicle VIN numbers, year-make-model of vehicles, medical history, allergy and medication names and dosages, wills, etc.
• Photos of family members for reunification purposes
• List of emergency contact phone numbers
• Include flares and jumper cables in your vehicle’s Go-bag. Special Items:
• Medications, prescriptions, insulin, etc.
• Denture needs, contact lenses, spare set of eyeglasses
• Incontinence or ostomy supplies
• Baby needs: diapers, formula, bottles, powdered milk, medications
• Entertainment: non-electronic games, books