Real Possibilities

November 12-18, 2018

By Nan Selz

Executive Council, AARP Arkansas

Be prepared to evacuate in an emergency

Almost every week seems to bring news of another natural disaster – floods, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes – and the hundreds, sometimes thousands, of people who are dislocated by these events. While the circumstances of these catastrophes differ, the constant is that we need to be prepared to abandon our homes at a moment’s notice.

Preparedness experts recommend that you prepare a bag for each person in the family and keep it ready to grab on the way out if you are evacuated from your home. Ideally, the bag should contain the following:

Basic electronics:  

– A phone charger should you have access to electricity

– A portable battery pack in case you don’t

– A long-lasting LED flashlight

– A battery-operated AM/FM radio (and extra batteries)

Personal needs:

– A travel-size version of all your toiletries

– Extra eyeglasses

– A first-aid kit

– A multipurpose tool with a knife and can opener.

Clothing:

– Clothes for a few days (layers you can add or remove)

– Lightweight rain gear

– Waterproof boots

Medications:

– Prescriptions to last three days

– If you need an oxygen tank, obtain a portable version

Paperwork (placed in a zip-top waterproof bag):

– Photocopies of your birth certificate; driver’s license; Social Security and Medicare cards; power of attorney and will; any marriage, adoption or naturalization certificates; proof of address; insurance certificates; medical and immunization records; and information about your credit cards

Food and drink:

– Bottled water

– Granola or energy bars

Cash:

– Enough money for a few days

– Some small bills and quarters for vending machines

Place all of the above in a bag that is small and portable such as a backpack or a lightweight suitcase with wheels. With a little luck, you’ll never have to use it.

This information was taken from an article by Jeff Rossen in the September 2017 issue of AARP Bulletin.