In the event that you have to evacuate due to inclement weather, prepare a Go Bag. You might want to consider having a bag packed and placed in a closet so that it is always ready to go.  You can pre-pack some items but for others make a list and leave it in the bag so that you can pack quickly under a stressful situation.

Things To Include

Please note that this list attempts to be as comprehensive as possible. Please assess your individual situation and prepare accordingly. It must be noted that not everyone has access to everything on this list nor does everyone have access to a support system to help. Also, if applicable, make sure that the bag you compile is maneuverable by you or your disabled family member in addition to your support people (e.g., family members or friends). Remember, at the end of the day, do what you need to do to stay alive.

  • You can have non-perishable items already in it and a list of perishables so you can pack it quickly in an emergency. Include things like saline and pet food. This includes food that is non-perishable, light weight, high calorie, and that is easily prepped.
  • Bottled water.
  • Accessible water bottle (if applicable).
  • Straws (if applicable).
  • Accessible eating utensils.
  • Extra clothes. (Weather appropriate! Layering can help too)
  • Necessary toiletries, hand sanitizer or alcohol swab
  • Rain gear (poncho, rain jacket, water resistant or waterproof pants, etc.
  • Ziploc bags.
  • Identification.
  • Copy of the Care Plan.
  • Pen and paper.
  • Heavy duty tape.
  • Implanted device cards.
  • Medication.  Keep a list of all current medication and update it often.  This will help you to quickly grab what you need.
  • Necessary medical equipment.
  • Transfer boards or equipment
  • Wound care supplies or supplies needed for ostomy or urostomy bags.
  • Incontinence supplies (Catheters, Diapers, Wipes (Both for toiletry use and hand sanitization), etc.)
  • Supplies for your service animal: food, harness, medications, weather gear.
  • G-tube supplies: saline, extra tubing.
  • Equipment needed for manual wheelchairs such as spare cushions, air pump, or replacement tubes.
  • Chargers for power wheelchair, AAC devices and other necessary medical equipment.
  • Small tool bag with the essentials such as allen wrench set, bearings, or small wrenches, etc.

If you have to evacuate:

  • Consider attaching the g-tube extender to your loved one’s shirt so that you can easily feed them on the road if you have to leave quickly. 
  • You can also place several diapers on a person who is incontinent and pull off the inner one to quickly change while on the road.