In case of an emergency or a disaster it’s important to outfit your child with a go bag. This could be something you keep at home for them in case of an earthquake, tornado, natural disaster, or something else.
A go bag is essential for every member of your family and should contain important items to help your child whether you are with them or not. Here are some items we suggest to have.
A Backpack
You’ll need a backpack if your child is of the age they can carry their own belongings. Get them excited about disaster preparedness and start the conversation by letting them customize their very own backpack. Head over to Squid Packs and let them design their own backpack that suits their likes. Make getting ready for an emergency a fun and teachable moment.
If your child is unable to carry a backpack, make sure you can pack and carry items for them in a safe and easy way.
Medications
Contact your doctor and get a one-month stash of extra medications your child takes on a regular basis in case of emergencies. You shouldn’t have a problem as long as you tell the doctor what it’s for and why you need it.
Another thing to consider is having a stash of allergy, pain and other over the counter medicines. These can really come in handy when you least expect it. Some common over-the-counter medicines that you should consider having for your entire family include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Antihistamines
- Eye drops
- Medicines for motion sickness
- Anti-fungal creams and ointments
- Pepto-Bismol
*Be sure to check with your doctor and ask for their advice on what you should have for your child and the dosage amounts based on their age.
Emergency Plan
Whether or not your child is able to read, you should include a typed and detailed emergency plan with emergency contact information. Hopefully if your child cannot read, someone who can will be able to read it and help your child. Include important phone numbers, addresses and details along with a meeting point in case of a disaster.
Photo of Family
Include a photo of your whole family, family pet or anyone important in your child’s life so they have something to connect with.
Sleeping Bag
Make sure your child has a sleeping bag, whether or not they can carry it, make sure that you bring one for them. Pick up something
simple or creative to help keep them feeling safe and warm.
Extra Set of Clothing
Include an extra set of clothing and/or diapers based on what your child needs. There’s probably going to be the need to change at some point.
Items Based on Age of Child
There are probably some things you will need based on your specific child, for example if you have a baby you will need extra formula and diapers. Consider the needs of your child and what will make them comfortable.
Activities
Provide your child with some resources and activities. Depending on your child’s age you’re probably going to need different items. Check out the little blue birdie for activity packs for children of younger ages.
