How to Pack an Emergency Evacuation Kit to Keep in Your Home

When you live in an area that is prone to natural disasters, you should always be prepared in the event of an evacuation.  In the state of Florida, we see many hurricanes that range from mild to severe, all requiring different levels of preparation.  As a public claims insurance adjuster in South Florida, we have seen homes and properties become ravished or destroyed due to the heavy winds and rains that accompany these tropical storms.  This leaves homeowners wondering what's next.  In order to stay prepared in the event of a natural disaster in your area, you should always keep a fully-packed emergency kit ready to go.  This is how to pack your emergency evacuation kit for your home.

Choose a Bag

First, you will want to choose a bag that is easy to store and transport.  This bag should preferably be able to zip shut so that none of the contents fall out in the event of having to run or grab the bag quickly.  Take the time to choose a bag that can also be quickly and easily identified, so choose a color that stands out.

Pack Food and Water

You will want to start packing your bag with food and water.  Pack food items that are as lightweight as possible and that are nonperishable so that you don't have to continuously restock your bag each time you go to the store.  Water jugs and water bottles are also important, so make sure that you pack enough for the entire family to survive for at least 24 hours in the event of an emergency.

Include Electronics and Batteries

Electronics, like flashlights and other security devices, should be packed in the bag.  Make sure that you also pack extra batteries in the event that you are running low or that you need more power.  Try to pack as many lightweight electronics as possible to not weigh your bag down too much.

Keep it Somewhere Safe

When you have your bag packed and ready to go, store it in a location that is safe and secure.  Consider a closet that is near the entryway of your home so that you can quickly grab it on the way out in the event of an emergency.  Communicate this location with other loved ones that live in the house so that they can grab it if they are home without you.

Keep Paperwork Safe

Paperwork, like birth certificates, wedding licenses, social security cards, and other documentation, is also important to keep safe and dry.  Invest in a fire- and water-proof safe so that you can keep your paperwork dry and safe if the home is damaged by these elements.  Consider putting some of these documents in your safe bag if need be.

By following these steps, you can pack your emergency evacuation kit and keep it ready for moment's notice.  When you are prone to hurricanes, you will always want to stay prepared to avoid damages or any injuries.  If you have suffered damage due to a hurricane or cases of extreme weather, contact our public claims insurance adjuster in South Florida for our help today.