In case of an emergency – when you need to leave in a hurry – you’ll need your Go Bag.
According to the city’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Every household should pack a Go Bag – a collection of items you may need in the event of an evacuation. It should be in a sturdy, easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or suitcase on wheels.
Your Go Bag should be easily accessible if you have to leave your home in a hurry. Make sure it is ready to go at all times of the year. Here’s what should be in it.
? Copies of your important documents in a waterproof and portable container (insurance cards, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.)
? Extra set of car and house keys
? Credit, debit, ATM cards and cash in small denominations. OEM recommends you keep at least $50-$100 on hand.
? Bottled water and non-perishable food such as energy or granola bars
? Flashlight – check your batteries twice a year, just like your smoke detector.
? Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries
? Keep a list of the medications each member of your household takes, why they take them, and their dosages. Medication information and other essential personal items. If you store extra medication in your Go Bag, be sure to refill it before it expires.
? First-aid kit
? Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map
? Child care supplies or other special care items
For more information on surviving disasters, visit www.nyc.gov/oem. – Alisha McLean
