Top Tips for Packing a Grab Bag
Emergencies can happen at any time and in any place, so it's important to have essential supplies packed in a grab bag that you can take with you if you need to evacuate quickly.
Each bag should have the following items:
Walking shoes, warm clothes, raincoat and hat
Water and snack food (remember babies too)
Supplies for your pets. Make sure you keep your dog’s lead, or a cat crate handy in case you have to leave in a hurry and add some extra water and pet food into your grab bag
Nappies and wipes if you have little ones
Hand sanitiser
USB chargers and /or portable charging devices
Portable solar or battery-powered radio
Torch and batteries
Cash (coins and small notes)
Copies of important documents and photo ID
Personal medications
First-aid kit/supplies, masks or face coverings
Emergencies can be stressful, especially for young children and pets. If you are asked to evacuate, you may be away from home for a while. So, to help keep little ones entertained, you may want to consider packing some non-essential ‘nice-to-haves’ if you have space in your grab bag. This could include:
A pack of playing cards
Small colouring book and pencils
A toy (for little ones or pets)
Our Top Tips for Packing a Grab Bag!
Although you can purchase grab bags online, it is easy to develop your own from a re-useable shopping bag or an old backpack you no longer need. Second-hand shops often have affordable backpacks too!
Daylight savings is a great time to check on your water bottles and expiry date of snacks in your grab bag!
In the spring, instead of throwing away your unwanted or old warm clothes, put an old jacket into your getaway kit.
Take photocopies of your passport or drivers licence to add to your grab bag. Also don’t forget to take a list of important phone numbers such as friends and family, school, vet and doctors.
Some comfortable closed shoes are essential. In the event of an earthquake, there may be broken glass and debris that might pose a hazard.
If you have pets, make sure your they have identity tags with your telephone number in case they get separated from you.
