Through the years I’ve written Newsletters about what documents are needed “In Case of an Emergency”. I’ve even sold Earthquake Kits on my website. But, apparently, I never thought to write about what to do if and when (and hopefully never) you are forced to evacuate.
As I’m sure you’re all aware, these past few days have been horrific for those of us that live in Los Angeles. Entire communities have been decimated. People have lost their homes, their livelihood and some have lost loved ones. Many have been evacuated and even more have been warned to get ready to evacuate. It has been nerve-wracking to say the least. Everyone knows someone who has been affected in one way or another.
A few days ago, I was given a warning to evacuate which meant that I had to get ready. I’ve never been through something like this before so I really didn’t know where to start. I mean…I already had an earthquake kit in my car just in case I wasn’t home during an emergency but, other than that I really wasn’t prepared.
Once I got the warning, I had to figure out what to take. Imagine trying to figure out, while I still had plenty of time, what was most important to me. EVERYTHING! That’s what is important. This is my home. My clothes, documents, jewelry, photos, heirlooms. Everything that I have worked for my entire life is in this house. I obviously can’t pack up everything so I had some important decisions to make.
It took a few minutes but, I eventually calmed down and went into action mode. I put together my jewelry, my important papers, necessary electronics, two suitcases with clothing, toiletries and other things I might need for a few days to a week. Once I finished packing, I was relieved that I was able to get it together and immediately felt less stressed out.
I also made sure to take photos of every room, every closet and every drawer so that I had a complete inventory of everything I own.
One thing that struck me while walking through my house to figure out what to take is that mostly it’s just stuff that can be replaced. You literally have to pick and choose what you need and want as not everything will fit into our vehicles. I had to determine what was really important and irreplaceable.
Then I did what so many others are doing… I waited for more instructions. Thankfully, I have not received further instructions as of yet and hope I never do. But, I’m ready. Strike that! I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. I have spent 23 years remodeling, redecorating and I’m finally at a place where I LOVE my home. I don’t want to leave!!!!!!!
So, without further ado and with my apologies for not doing this sooner, here’s a list of items that you should put together and have ready when you need to evacuate:
PERSONAL ITEMS:
Wallet
Purse
Backpack
Keys
PERSONAL HYGIENE:
Toilet Paper
Tissues
Soap
Hand Sanitizer
Washcloth
DOCUMENTS: (See Prior Newsletter/Blog entitled “Just In Case” which provides a comprehensive list of documents that are essential)
Drivers’ License/ID
Insurance Cards
SS Card
Passport/Visa
Birth Certificate
Titles/Deeds
Will/Trust/Powers of Attorney
FINANCIAL:
Cash
Credit Cards
ATM/Debt Cards
Safety Deposit Box Key
Checkbooks
MEDICAL:
Prescription Medication
Hearing Aids (and extra batteries)
First Aid Kit
Glasses/Contacts
Important Medical Records
ELECTRONICS:
Cell Phone & Charger
Laptop Computer
Solar Powered Chargers
Ipad
Ear-buds
Headphones
CLOTHING: At least a few days of the following taking weather into consideration:
Underwear
Socks
Bras
Pants
T-Shirts
Sweatshirts
Comfortable Shoes/Sneakers
Coat/Jacket
Gloves/Hat
PETS:
Food/dishes
Medication
Leash/Carrier
Litter/Box
MEMORIES:
Photos/Albums
Memorabilia
Heirlooms
VALUABLES:
Jewelry
Art
Appraisals
SAFETY:
Flashlights & Batteries
Battery Operated Radio
Face Masks
Plastic Bags (for waste or to keep things dry)
FOOD & WATER: At least 3 days of:
Non-Perishable Food
Special Diet Items
Water
CONCLUSION:
Being prepared not only helps you react to emergencies efficiently, but it can also save lives, minimize damage and support the well-being of yourself and your loved ones. It empowers you to act swiftly and with confidence, ensuring that you’re ready for whatever comes your way.