Here's what you need to pack in your go-bag if you're in the path of a massive hurricane or any natural disaster
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- Preparing a go-bag or disaster supplies kit is critical to one's survival during an emergency.
- Hurricane Idalia is set to hit Florida's Gulf Coast on Wednesday.
- The National Hurricane Center has asked people to "take all necessary actions to protect life."
With Hurricane Idalia set to hit Florida's Gulf Coast on Wednesday, the authorities have asked people residing nearby to take the necessary precautions.
"This is a life-threatening situation," the National Hurricane Center wrote in an update at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. "Persons located within these areas should take all necessary actions to protect life and property from rising water and the potential for other dangerous conditions."
But it's not just about evacuating. The US Department of Homeland Security recommends preparing a go-bag or disaster supplies kit.
Here are the 14 items you should have in your go-bag:
- Water (one gallon per person for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (a supply of non-perishable food that can last several days)
- A cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- A flashlight
- A first-aid kit
- Extra batteries
- A whistle (to signal for help)
- A dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- A manual can opener (for food)
- Maps of the local area
- A battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Besides the above, the Department of Homeland Security also suggests packing additional items like prescription medications, sleeping bags, and warm blankets.
The department also advised storing these essentials in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
"Being prepared for any type of emergency or disaster can make the difference between life and death. We can't stress that enough," Red Cross spokesperson Sherri McKinney told NPR on August 25. "Have a plan, have a kit, and know how to evacuate your area."
The US has been hit by several natural disasters in recent weeks. Besides this year's Atlantic hurricane season, wildfires decimated the Hawaiian island of Maui in August, killing at least 115 people.
Heavy rains brought about by Tropical Storm Hilary also flooded parts of San Diego, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, and left Nevada's Black Rock Desert inundated last week.