Tornado "Bug Out" Bags

Tornado "Bug Out" Bags

This is tornado season in Oklahoma. Although we may have tornadoes any month, most of the worst ones seem to occur in May. So, this blog may seem like a public service announcement. There are things to remember, and if you're not used to tornadoes, it might be something you'd want to read. This particular blog is about what you might want to carry with you if you have to leave your house because of impending weather or if you are in a tornado.

One of my cousins who lives in another state once asked me if I had a "bug out bag" and was it near my front door. It's also called by many other names, but basically it's what anyone would grab in an emergency. This emergency kit or backpack would also come in handy in case of fires, floods, very intense thunderstorms, or anytime you might have to leave quickly.

The bag would include the following and anything else that you might find you'd need. I know I won't list everything needed, but at least some of these things you could gather and keep handy. Items include cash because there might not be credit card or ATM machines around, first aid kits, plenty of batteries for radios, flashlights, etc. Chargers for your phone, and for your computers, tablets, etc. that you might be able to carry with you. Also, battery or hand cranked radios and a NOAA Weather Radio would be nice to have on hand. Include a whistle or two to signal for help, and dusk masks. Some plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place would be good to have. Hand sanitizer and moist towelettes would be needed. Garbage bags and ties, wrenches, pliers and a hammer might come in handy.

With a tornado, you might not be able to get back into your home if your house is damaged or just plain gone. Many people pack copies of important papers with them, including their credit card numbers, and insurance papers. Some carry marriage licenses and birth certificates. Many people, however, do not choose to carry anything on this particular list. Instead, they keep them in a bank box or a safe.

 Water and food could be packed in boxes. It's been recommended to have a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. It doesn't hurt to add more if you can.  Not all food cans have pull tabs, so a manual can opener would be needed. You would need at least a three day supply of food per person. Canned meats, soups, and veggies, and fruits should be packed in boxes. I've heard it's good to have veggies and fruits because they give you additional water in their juices, and there's a chance you might be thirsty. If you have a chance to grab additional foods, and you have room, than do so. If electricity is off or will be off for days, everything will spoil.

If you are able to take your pet/pets with you, each should have a 3 day or more supply of food and water, too.

Medications for everyone and for pets should also be included in your "bug out" bag. It will be a stressful time for all, so don't forget the meds. Also, a list of doctors, dentist, vets, and hospitals you use or have been to would be handy. They should have some of your records.

A list of relatives who live in other areas of the country would be nice to have. If you're injured, that list and a list of medicines you are taking or are allergic to could save the emergency workers some valuable time. Put some of that information in your bag or backpack. Some people type up a list of medicines that they take and insurance policy numbers and put it in a large pill bottle. Emergency workers might look for something like that and it could save some precious time

It's a good idea to let your neighbors, relatives, and friends know where your shelter is if you have one. Some cities request that you let them know if you have a shelter and where it is located on your property. If you don't have a safe room or shelter, let someone know where you'll be. Text or call loved ones to let them know where you are staying. Also, include who is with you.

This blog is longer than I intended. I could add additional things, but I'll close this one for now. I plan to write other safety measures concerning tornadoes, but that's for another day.