BLOGGING THE VIEW: How to prepare for an emergency evacuation

While it might seem unnecessarily ‘dooms day’ adjacent, packing an emergency bag and preparing for an evacuation is fast becoming a reality as we experience more natural disasters against the backdrop of the climate crisis.

From the wildfires in Los Angeles to floods in Australia, nowhere is immune to these disasters, and preparation is key.

In KZN alone, we’ve seen how quickly a situation can turn into an emergency, having experienced riots and looting, as well as devastating floods.

Whether it’s a natural or manmade disaster, here’s a look at how to prepare for an evacuation emergency.

Pack an emergency bag
Just like insurance, you should pack an emergency bag in the hopes you won’t ever need it – but you’ll be glad you have should the need arise.

Here’s a list of items you should include:
· First aid kit

· Emergency chronic meds

· Lighter or waterproof matches

· Torch and batteries

· Candles and matches

· Hats

· Suncream and insect repellent

· Power bank

· Blankets

· Water

· Multi-purpose knife / tools

· High-energy snacks

· Cash

· Tissues / wet wipes

· Important documents / copies of important documents

· Change of clothing for everyone

· Food, blankets and related items for pets, if you have

· Nappies, formula and related items for babies / games and snacks for toddlers

Remember to check your emergency bag contents at least twice a year to ensure none of the medical supplies or non-perishable foodstuffs have passed their sell-by dates.

You can also get into the habit of swapping out these items every so often, replenishing with new goods.

Items like spare clothing for little ones will also have to be replenished so they’re the right fit.

Planning for an evacuation
It’s best to plan your evacuation ahead of time so everyone knows what to do in the moment. Some of the the things to consider include:

· Identifying where you can go in the event of an evacuation, ideally you should have more than one option. This could be the home of a friend or family member, or a nearby hotel

· Map out your route and backup route to your evacuation destination in case roads are blocked, and keep a physical map handy

· Have a pre-arranged meeting place with your family members in case you’re not together before evacuation protocol is initiated

· Ensure your emergency bag is packed and easy to access if the time comes

Remember, you also need to review your insurance so you have the right coverage for risks in your area.

Many homeowners in Los Angeles were left destitute after their insurers cancelled fire coverage just months before the disaster, so don’t get caught out!

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