Evacuation Essentials: What To Grab When Seconds Count

Evacuation preparedness is crucial for any prepper, and having a well-thought-out plan can make a significant difference. Here's a list of items to consider grabbing when you need to evacuate quickly:

Emergency Documents

• Identification (ID, passport, driver's license)
• Birth certificates
• Social Security cards
• Insurance policies (home, health, auto)
• Medical records

Communication Devices

• Cell phone and charger
• Portable charger/power bank
• Two-way radios

Clothing and Personal Items

• Change of clothes (including underwear and socks)
• Sturdy shoes or boots
• Jacket or coat
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
• Prescription medications and basic first aid kit

Important Supplies

• Water bottles
• Non-perishable snacks
• Emergency cash
• Multi-tool or knife
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Map of the local area

Shelter and Bedding

• Lightweight tent or emergency shelter
• Sleeping bag or blankets

Important Valuables

• Jewelry
• Family heirlooms
• Irreplaceable items

Pets

• Pet food and water
• Leash and collar
• Pet carrier or crate

Important Electronics

• Laptop or tablet
• External hard drive with backups
• Camera (if valuable for documentation)

Tools and Equipment

• Swiss army knife or multi-tool
• Duct tape
• Small tool kit
• Rope or paracord

Emergency Information

• Emergency contact list
• Evacuation plan/map
• Important phone numbers (local authorities, family, friends)

Health and Sanitation

• Face masks
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes

Survival Gear

• Firestarter
• Portable water filter or purification tablets
• Emergency whistle
• Mylar emergency blankets

Important Legal and Financial Documents

• Will and testament
• Power of attorney documents
• Deeds and titles
• Bank account information

Vehicle Essentials

• Car keys
• Vehicle registration and insurance
• Gas can

Weather-appropriate Gear

• Umbrella
• Hat
• Gloves

Remember to tailor this list to your specific needs, the number of people in your household, and the specific risks in your area. Regularly review and update your evacuation kit to ensure everything is in working order and that the supplies haven't expired.