Storms Happen. Are You Prepared?

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

A to-go-bag by the front door is a great way to prepare for any emergency.

Do You Have an Emergency To-Go-Bag?

SERVPRO of Yuma East/Foothills encourages every homeowner and family to have an emergency to-go bag. Natural or man-caused disasters can strike with little or no warning. An emergency to-go bag should be part of everyone's disaster preparedness planning checklist. It would help to have a grab-and-go bag or a suitcase for all the essentials.

Most people expect the to-go bag (s) to be placed in an automobile, which is fine. However, remember that the bags will probably also be carried. Thus, size and weight are always a consideration.

Essential items for a to-go-bag include:

• Portable/pocket radio
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Portable cell phone battery pack
• Refillable water bottle
• Water purification tablets/LifeStraw
• Multi-tool

Other items to include:

• 2-4 extra batteries (most radios require 2 AA)
• An external hard drive with backups of important files/photos
• A set of keys for your house/car
• Spare glasses/contact lenses
• Lighters/matches
• A copy of your ID
• A list of emergency contacts
• Meal replacement bars
• One change of clothes for each person
• Thermal blankets
• Plastic rain gear

Last-minute additions to your to-go-bag:

• Cash
• Your medicine
• Cell phone / Laptop /I-pad and chargers
• Hard drive backups

Pre-packed emergency go-bags are available for purchase from hardware stores, camping supply companies, and online sources, including the Red Cross website.

https://www.redcross.org/store/preparedness

When you're building or buying your to-go bag, think about your and your family's needs and even your pets. A small package of dried pet food doesn't occupy too much space. So, customize your bag to fit your needs.

The employees at SERVPRO of Yuma East/Foothills are always concerned for the safety of our neighbors. That's the main reason we're in the property disaster restoration industry. If you ever require assistance with property damage problems caused by storms, fires, flooding, and others, we are here to provide cleanup 24/7. You can reach SERVPRO of Yuma at 928-247-1100.