Planning & Packing To Evacuate From Natural Disaster
Here in Bremerton, we are no strangers to the effects of fires or earthquakes. Most of us know that the next natural disaster can be around the corner, so we prepare accordingly. However, if you are new to Bremerton or out on your own for the first time, you’re not quite sure what your go-bag might need or what to expect during your evacuation, we’ve got you covered.
The Go-Bag In Your House
First and foremost, you’ll likely need a go-bag in your house and a go-bag in your car. These serve different purposes, but they’ll both have some similar items. The go-bag you have in your house should be sturdy and easily grabbable in the case of an emergency. You can hang it up in your coat closet or right next to your front door. The following things should be in every evacuation bag:
- First aid kit.
- Whistle (to alert others where you are if need be).
- Battery-powered radio.
- Body-warmers or ponchos.
- Medicines (or a reminder to grab medicines if you have time).
- Emergency numbers.
- Extra phone chargers and battery packs.
Bringing your dogs with you might mean packing a Tupperware or two of dog food and ensuring you have a bowl to get them water. However, don’t forget to fit your go-bag to your needs. If you know you’ll need a contact solution or a contact case in an emergency, add some extras to your bag while minding the expiration date. If there’s time, you may also include a list of valuables you want to pack before leaving, such as photo albums or antiques. This way, you aren’t scrambling and grabbing random objects when the time comes to leave.
The Go-Bag In Your Car
The go-bag in your car will serve you in emergencies, such as evacuations for fires or earthquakes, but it should also be able to help you out in less dire situations. If you have a flat tire waiting on the side of the road for a tow, or if you get stranded without gas on a cold light, your car evacuation kit should have everything you need. Some of the basics include:
- Water Bottles.
- Non-perishable snacks.
- Blankets.
- First aid kit.
- Flashlight.
- Road flares.
- Extra fluids (such as windshield wiper fluid, coolant, and oil).
- Battery pack and phone charger (which comes in handy if your car is dead!).
You can keep this kit in your trunk or have it somewhere out of sight. Some cars even come with their first aid or roadside emergency kits, and you can add things as you see fit.
What To Expect When Evacuating
If you’re aware a fire is creeping in near you, make sure to have your car filled. The USDA suggests having your car filled with half a tank at all times, just in case.
Preparedness can help ease some anxiety. If you know what an evacuation looks like, you can focus on getting out safely without worrying about what comes next. Ready for Wildfire, an organization that helps communities prepare for wildfires, has a helpful list of what to expect if you need to get up and go. Typically, an evacuation process looks like this:
- Law enforcement agencies will alert you of the potential to evacuate as soon as possible. However, you should still pay attention to your phone, the TV, or the radio for who is supposed to evacuate.
- Officials will let you know where the “safe location” is or the “temporary” safe location so that you and your family can head that way.
- Follow official guidelines on traffic and maintain alertness. Sometimes, a 2-way road may become a 1-way to help as many people get out with as little gridlock as possible.
Maintaining Your Cars Needs Is Emergency Preparedness
It’s always a good idea to have your car gassed up with your fluids at an adequate level, but this is especially true during Wildfire or earthquake season. You last want to put off a crucial repair to realize you never went in as you evacuated. See us here at B&B Auto Repair, where we’re happy to help prepare you for life’s surprises. Located at 299 S National Ave, Bremerton, WA 98312, we are open from 8 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday. For best service, call us to schedule an appointment. You can always depend on the B&B Auto Repair team for top-notch service and repairs.
