December 2019 Newsletter

Give the Gift of Fire Preparedness

As the holidays approach, it's time to start thinking about what gifts you'll get your friends, family, and that one neighbor who's always there for you. This year, show them you care by creating a personalized evacuation Go-Bag. Use the following guide to learn what to add and how to make your Go-Bag special.

What is a Go-Bag? A Go-Bag is an evacuation preparation bag that contains a three-day supply of items one would need to safely evacuate their home. These bags are prepared in advance, before an emergency, and are kept in an easily accessible place.

How to Make a Go-Bag

To make a Go-Bag, find a sturdy and large enough bag that can hold at least three days worth of necessities. Add the essentials first and include additional items as you see fit. Then, personalize your Go-Bag based on your recipient and add some festive decorations.

Essential items: Clothing and toiletries for 3-5 days Flashlight and radio with extra batteries Non-perishable food & a can opener Phone charger Extra cash First-Aid kit Pet essentials

Additional items: Hand sanitizer / wipes Books or magazines Trash bags Rain poncho Blanket Laundry detergent Rubber gloves / duct tape Your contact information

Personalize Your Go-Bag

Any Go-Bag is great, but a personalized one is even better.

When creating a Go-Bag, it's important to consider who it's for. Keep in mind the different toiletry, clothing, and medical needs of your recipients' gender and age. Women may need different toiletries than men, and your grandmother may need different clothes than your nephew. Does your recipient use an inhaler? Do they wear glasses? The more you consider your recipients' needs, the more prepared they will be for a wildfire. Additionally, include a written list of items that you recommend your recipient add such as: Financial and medical records Necessary medications Prescription glasses Extra credit cards Inventory of home contents Designated out-of-area contacts Family heirlooms and photos Copy of their passport Lastly, you can write a thoughtful card or include a comforting note such as "I hope you never have to use this Go-Bag, but I'm happy you're prepared. Below is my contact information, I'm here whenever you need me."

Happy Holidays!

Good luck with your Go-Bag shopping and Happy Holidays from the Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities!

Learn More About Preparing For Wildfire

Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities tahoe.livingwithfire.info | 530-543-1501 ext. 114 | fire@tahoercd.org ‌ ‌ ‌