With all the unpredictable weather patterns and natural disasters we’ve experienced, it’s time to have a conversation about emergency preparedness. Life can happen to the best of us, especially those of us who are constantly finding ourselves living in new and sometimes unfamiliar places.
As military families, we are constantly relocating to new areas, trying to figure out whether to worry about hurricanes, earthquakes, blizzards or tornadoes. Most of us don’t have our extended family nearby, and probably couldn’t tell you where the local shelter is in case of an emergency, so our homes need to be extra prepared. Catastrophes happen, and you will likely experience one in your lifetime. Being prepared isn’t just about protecting your own family — it’s about being a responsible community member who can help others in the most challenging times.
Beyond the physical dangers, being unprepared creates enormous psychological stress. We already deal with deployment anxiety, frequent moves, and the general stresses of military life. Knowing you’re prepared for emergencies provides peace of mind, even if in only one area of your life.
For emergencies, your family needs a Go Bag
Having a Go Bag ready and accessible will minimize stress and help keep your family safe. Don’t know what a Go Bag is? Think of it as your family’s “just in case” backpack. It’s packed with everything you’d need to survive for at least 72 hours if you have to leave home fast. The idea is simple: grab your bags and go. You’ll have the essentials covered while you figure out what’s next.
Florida firefighter Bernard Taylor explained, “As a firefighter, I have been able to more effectively and efficiently respond to help families during evacuation situations when they are well prepared. Most households don’t have a stocked, ready-to-go kit for hurricanes, blackouts or evacuations. Your kit should include: water, food, flashlight, first aid, phone chargers, medications, and important documents.”
Go Bags look different around the country
If you’re near the coast (hello, hurricane season): You will need everything in waterproof containers. Seriously, invest in good waterproof bags. You’ll also want to have extra cash, as ATMs tend to go down.
In earthquake country? Pack some sturdy shoes for everyone. You don’t want to be stepping over broken glass in flip-flops. Throw in some work gloves and a whistle too, just in case.
Dealing with wildfire risk? N95 masks are your friend, along with extra water. Fires can mess with the water supply, so you’ll want more than you think you’ll need.
In Tornado Alley? A weather radio that works without power is essential. Cell towers go down, so having another way to get information is crucial.
Blizzards, anyone? (not the yummy ones from DQ) You’ll need extra warm stuff — thermal blankets, hand warmers and high-energy snacks that won’t freeze.
Other tips
Set a reminder to check expiration dates and rotate food and water every six months. Update documents when they expire, replace batteries, and check that your kids’ clothes still fit. Trust me, that emergency isn’t going to wait for you to realize your 8-year-old is now wearing size 12 clothes. Taylor emphasized the importance of keeping pertinent documents on hand.
“In the chaos of an evacuation or emergency, people often forget the essential paperwork that can make or break your ability to access aid, shelter, health care, or even re-enter your home,” he said. “These documents should be stored in a waterproof pouch and updated regularly.”
Your Go Bag is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need a communication plan — who’s your out-of-state contact? Where will you meet if you can’t get home? Make sure everyone knows the plan.
Military families know how to adapt, pivot, plan and push through when things don’t go as expected. Emergency preparedness is just another way we do what we’ve always done — take care of our own and look out for the people around us. And just like every other challenge you’ve faced as a military family, you don’t have to face it alone. Let’s prepare, together.
