A Comprehensive Guide on Packing Your Go-Bag for Hurricane or Natural Disasters

• It is crucial to prepare a go-bag or disaster supplies kit for surviving emergencies.
• Hurricane Idalia is scheduled to make landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday.
• The National Hurricane Center has issued a statement, urging people to take necessary actions to protect their lives.

As Hurricane Idalia approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast, local authorities have emphasized the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and survival. It is advised to review the information provided by the National Hurricane Center.

The National Hurricane Center stated in their recent update at 8 p.m. Eastern Time, “This is a critical situation, and individuals within the affected areas must take immediate action to protect their lives and properties from potential hazards, such as rising water.”

In addition to evacuating, the US Department of Homeland Security suggests preparing a go-bag or disaster supplies kit. This includes essential items to sustain oneself during emergencies.

Here are the 14 items that should be included in a go-bag:

• Water (one gallon per person for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (a supply of non-perishable food that can last several days)
• A cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• A flashlight
• A first-aid kit
• Extra batteries
• A whistle (to signal for help)
• A dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• A manual can opener (for food)
• Maps of the local area
• A battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

The Department of Homeland Security also recommends including additional items, such as prescription medications, sleeping bags, and warm blankets, based on their preparedness checklist.

These essential items should be stored in easily portable containers like plastic bins or a duffel bag, according to the department.

Sherri McKinney, a spokesperson for the Red Cross, emphasized the importance of preparedness and evacuation plans during emergencies in an interview with NPR on August 25. She stated, “Being prepared for any type of emergency or disaster can be a matter of life and death.”

Recent natural disasters, including the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, wildfires in Hawaii, and flooding in parts of California and Nevada, highlight the need for proactive measures and readiness.