10-Minute Evacuation / Emergency Grab Bag Checklist

• Water (bottled) — staying hydrated is critical in any emergency.
• Phone + power bank — stay connected and keep devices charged.
• Extra batteries — keep lights and other devices working.
• Flashlight — power outages happen, light helps you see and stay safe.
• Battery/hand-crank radio — stay informed if internet goes down.
• ID and important documents — keep in a waterproof bag.
• Essential medicines — don't forget medications you or family members need.
• Emergency food — non-perishable, easy to carry and eat.
• First-aid kit — treat minor injuries.
• Cash (small bills) — ATMs and card readers may not work.
• Jacket / warm layer — weather can change quickly.
• Keys (spare set) — car, house, and any safe locations.
• Dust masks — useful around dust, smoke, debris.
• Work gloves — protect hands moving debris/handling rough materials.
• Paper map — useful if phone loses signal or power.
• Personal hygiene supplies — pack basic items you'll actually use.
• Emergency contact card — important phone numbers written down in case your phone isn't available.

Principle: have an exit plan, know safe locations in your area, practice with your family, stay calm and act fast. Keep the bag somewhere easy to grab and known to everyone in the household — check it every few months and replace anything expired, damaged, or missing.

Where to be cautious

• Medicines, food and batteries expire or die in a bag nobody opens. Put a date on your calendar to swap them (added: general practice, not from the source list).
• Keep the power bank and spare batteries out of a hot car; heat shortens their life and can damage them (added).
• Ask your pharmacist how to store and rotate any prescription you pack; some medicines cannot sit in a bag (added).
• This is a short starter list, not a full plan. Add what your own household needs: infants, pets, mobility aids, glasses (added).