Here’s our list of the top things you should take with you in an emergency.
With so much of California on fire, it’s important to have an evacuation plan. A lot of our friends have found themselves under evacuation orders only to panic over what to bring with them. While you hopefully never have to think about it, today we want to go over the top things you should bring with you in case of an emergency.
First things first, you should check out www.ready.gov to build a comprehensive evacuation plan. We recommend everyone make one, even if you don’t currently live near any of the fires. Now, onto the list:
1. Pets. This should be at the top of any list. Pets are part of the family, so you want to make sure you have a plan on how to safely and quickly take them with you in case of an emergency. Don’t forget any necessary accessories as well such as leashes, medicine, or even a favorite toy.
2. Identification. We probably all carry identification on us in normal circumstances, but an emergency is anything but normal. Make sure you don’t leave behind driver’s licenses, passports, or anything else you might need.
3. Proof of address. It is for when you eventually head back to your neighborhood and check on your property. This could be a utility bill or anything official that proves your address.
4. Cash and credit. In today’s age, we don’t use cash too often. However, it is important to keep some around for an emergency. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should leave your cards behind; just make sure both options are available.
5. Important documents. Marriage certificates, birth certificates, insurance documents, and any other irreplaceable document should be kept safe with you.
6. Keys. If your property comes out of the emergency in okay condition, you’ll want your house keys. Your security deposit keys are essential as well.
7. Medication and medical supplies. It may seem obvious, but these are things you don’t want to forget on the way out of the house.
8. Hygiene items. You don’t want to be lugging a liter bottle of shampoo on the way out, but having travel-sized items is important.
9. Food and water. Once again, a small amount is fine. You just want to make sure you and your loved ones will be okay in a worst-case scenario.
10. Change of clothes. You don’t know how long you will be away from your home, so you should prepare in case you need to stay in a hotel for a few nights.
11. Masks. Due to the pandemic, everyone should have a mask at this point. While it’s great for protecting yourself and others from disease, it will also protect your lungs from ash and dust.
12. Electronics. Don’t risk your life for a few electronics, but if you have the time, grab expensive items you would be upset to lose, such as laptops, tablets, or phones.
13. Irreplaceable comfort items. Focus on what can’t be replaced. Photos without digital copies, childhood toys, family heirlooms, or anything else you don’t want to lose.
We know this was a lot of information, but it is important to be prepared in case of an emergency. If you have questions about today’s topic or anything else related to real estate, please reach out to us via phone or email. We would love to hear from you!
