Experts Explain Why You Need An Emergency Go Bag (And What Should Be In It)

When it comes to personal safety, no one ever wants to imagine that the worst could ever happen to themselves or their loved ones. And now, with the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-driven disasters, it’s more important than ever for families to be prepared.” She said the Red Cross strongly encourages everyone to have an emergency preparedness kit filled with the proper supplies they may need in the event of an emergency or disaster. "Food, water and any prescription medication are extremely important components to a kit.” She went on to add that “you’ll also want to make special considerations and accommodations for those most vulnerable in your family unit like children, the elderly, the disabled and pets.” Survivalist, author and television host Ky Furneaux is a proponent of researching past natural disasters in your area to determine what kind of potential emergency situations you might find yourself in. Even if there is no history of natural disasters where you live, she said, it is a good idea to have a go bag ready in case your area gets struck by a “once-in-a-lifetime event.” While there are many pre-made survival kits and go bags available for purchase, Furneaux believes the best survival bag is one that you have put together yourself. Having the ability to logically say ‘it’s time to go’ is a must.The mind is super powerful and if you have prepared yourself mentally, physically and emotionally, you will live.” Below, we’ve compiled a selection of essential survival items for creating your own emergency go-bag inspired by our experts’ suggestions.