A go bag is a kit for disaster preparedness that consists of essential items for evacuation during natural disasters or other emergencies. Consider it as your means of survival, packed with all the necessities required to endure a crisis. Emergency food, which should be capable of lasting for several days, is a crucial element of this kit. Picture a challenging scenario: power lines being severed, roads becoming impassable, and deliveries becoming nonexistent. In such circumstances, how will you ensure your sustenance?
In order to prevent panic, it is important to adopt a logical approach and develop a strategy. Engage all family members to allocate responsibilities. Determine who will be responsible for carrying the bags, who will search for water and a heat source, and who will prepare the morning and evening meals.
You must obtain the answers to these questions immediately. Do not delay until a disaster occurs before taking action. Adhere to this guide when making crucial choices, particularly regarding preparing your emergency food stock.
If you have some advance warning, it’s a good idea to prepare for an upcoming storm by stocking up on nourishing foods that will keep you satisfied. Additionally, it is advisable to plan ahead and acquire the necessary ingredients from the store for recipes that can be prepared even when there is a power outage.
Preparing Your Go Bag
In order to be prepared for any emergency, it is important to have a go bag that is easily accessible and can be quickly grabbed and carried. Opt for either a medium-sized duffel bag or a waterproof backpack with ample storage space. Particularly in a country like the Philippines, where typhoons are common, it is advisable to ensure that all essential items are included in the go bag to withstand any severe weather conditions.
The upcoming task is to efficiently pack your bag with all necessary items while keeping it lightweight. If the bag becomes too heavy, it becomes counterproductive and hinders your progress. Exercise careful judgment when finalizing the list of things to bring, but ensure that you include the following essentials, excluding emergency food and water.
- First aid kit
- Medicine
- Sanitary or hygiene kits
- Extra clothes
- Flashlights
- Handheld tools
- Copies of important documents
Emergency Food Safety
In the event of the worst-case scenario occurring, power outages and being unable to access power may be experienced. It is essential to ensure that your kitchen is ready for a power outage. By adhering to the appropriate food safety guidelines (since even nonperishable food can spoil), you will be able to maintain good health until the storm subsides.
Beforehand, examine your cabinets and make a note of the items you have along with their expiration dates. Restock any items that are running low or have expired. If your canned goods are nearing their expiration date, utilize them in these uncomplicated recipes that incorporate canned goods.
In the event of a power outage, it is advisable to refrain from opening your refrigerator and freezer frequently. By keeping the fridge unopened, it can effectively retain the coldness of food for a maximum of four hours. Additionally, any perishable food left at room temperature for over two hours should be discarded.
Packing an Emergency Food Kit
When selecting food to pack in your go bag, use these three quick tips to guide your decision.
Pack enough supplies per person.
It is necessary for each member of the family to have food and water for a few days. Keep in mind that there will not be enough time to collect food from your refrigerator or freezer. You can only depend on items that can endure temperature variations and are capable of being stored on shelves. In the case of larger families, it would be prudent to prepare multiple go bags in order to meet everyone’s food requirements during an emergency.
Check expiry dates annually and replace items if needed.
To ensure you don’t end up with outdated or unsafe items when you need it, it’s important to periodically review and replace the supplies in your go bag. While it’s something everyone hopes they’ll never need, maintaining its contents is an ongoing task. Therefore, it’s recommended to check and update your supplies on an annual basis.
Consider ease of preparation and weight of items.
To minimize waste and easily obtain hot food quickly, opt for convenience foods that require only the addition of water or are ready to eat. While canned items are commonly chosen due to their extended shelf life, it is also important to take into account their weight. If possible, select food packets as an alternative.
What to Pack
Clean drinking water
When packing your bag, it is important to include large bottles of clean drinking water as one of the initial items. Additionally, considering packing a portable filter to use if you come across a water source.
Nonperishable, easy-to-heat meals
Quick and satisfying, just-add-water hot meals such as Knorr Hot Meals Instant Arroz Caldo and Knorr Hot Meals Instant Beef Goto, can be cooked in only three minutes and require no cleanup.
Fiber-rich crackers and peanut butter
Satisfy your need for fiber by indulging in salted crackers that have a lengthy shelf life. Enhance their taste by spreading them with a savory or sweet topping, such as peanut butter, for a simple and filling snack. Additionally, they can serve as a pleasant and unexpected treat at the end of a tiring day.
Tinned fish and canned meats, fruit, or vegetables
To ensure a variety of nutrients, it is convenient to pack a selection of small tin cans containing fish, meat, fruit, and vegetables. Seek out popular choices like sardines, tuna, corned beef, green beans, and other favorites for the whole family.
Oatmeal, pasta, or rice
If you need something that will keep you fuller for longer, you can preserve oatmeal, pasta, and rice in airtight bags for several months. However, in order to consume them, you will require access to gas, fire, or similar cooking methods. Nonetheless, these options have proven to be reliable and effective in making difficult days more bearable.
Comforting soups
In times of emergencies, it is always necessary to seek some form of relief. One trustworthy choice is instant soup mixes, such as Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup or Knorr Chicken and Corn Soup. They provide a quick and effortless solution!
Granola or protein bars
After experiencing a series of exhausting events, you have the option to replenish your energy levels by consuming nutrient-rich granola and protein bars. Ensure that you choose from a variety of flavors, including nuts, mixed grains, fruit, and peanut butter.
Dehydrated meats
If beef and pork jerky are stored in a cool, dry area, they can remain edible for several months. Dehydrated meats are a valuable source of protein when you require sustenance and a satisfying meal.
Pet food and ready-to-drink baby formula
If you have a newborn, it is essential to have ready-to-drink baby formula. When searching for a brand, ensure it does not require additional water. Additionally, do not overlook your pets and remember to pack something for them as well.
To ensure that your family is prepared for any situation they might encounter, it is advisable to plan ahead. Take action now by adhering to these suggestions for organizing your go bag and selecting emergency food items.
