By: Carol Grinage

While peak tornado season in Texas typically runs from May through early June, residents of North Texas are also at risk for severe storms, flooding and extreme heat, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Severe Storms Laboratory.

To help families prepare, the American Red Cross recommends assembling both a home emergency kit and a personalized “go bag” for each household member.

What Is a Go Bag?

A go bag is a portable emergency survival kit tailored to an individual’s specific needs. It can be a backpack, duffel bag or small wheeled suitcase — ideally waterproof and easy to carry.

Where Should You Store It?

Store your go bag in an easily accessible location such as a garage, closet or entryway. In an emergency, you’ll need to grab it quickly, so avoid hard-to-reach or cluttered areas.

What Should Go in a Go Bag?

Unlike a general home emergency kit, a go bag is designed to support one person for up to 72 hours. It should be updated regularly to reflect changing needs, such as new medications or expired food. Recommended items include:

• Water
• Nonperishable food (include a can opener if packing canned goods)
• Copies of personal documents (e.g., medication list, medical info, proof of address, lease or deed, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies — digital copies are acceptable)
• First aid kit
• Seven-day supply of medications and medical items
• Extra cash (ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages)
• Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, wet wipes, menstrual products, toothbrush, toothpaste)
• Cell phone and charger
• Hand sanitizer
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (preferably NOAA weather radio)
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Power bank (portable charger)
• Whistle
• Dust mask
• Multi-purpose tool
• Duct tape
• Utility shutoff tool
• Windproof matches
• Heavy-duty trash bags
• Change of clothes
• Emergency contact list
• Local map
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

By preparing a go bag in advance, families can respond more quickly and effectively when disaster strikes.