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SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2026 7 By Tina Pauro, Emergency Preparedness Advisory Committee (EPAC) When an emergency happens, there may not be time to gather your belongings. Whether it's a wildfire, earthquake, power outage, or another unexpected event, having a Go Bag packed and ready can make all the difference. A Go Bag is a backpack or small duffle containing the essentials you'll need to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours if you must leave your home quickly. Store it in an easy-to-reach location and review it every six months to replace expired food, water, medications, and batteries. Suggested Go Bag Contents: Essentials • Water (or a reusable bottle plus a water filter or purification tablets) • Non-perishable food (energy bars, nuts, ready-to-eat meals) • Manual can opener (if carrying canned food) • Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries • Multi-tool or pocketknife • Whistle • Lighter or waterproof matches • Emergency blanket • Duct tape and paracord First aid • Basic first aid kit • Prescription medications (3 to 7-day supply) • Pain relievers • Bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes • Tweezers, disposable gloves Clothing • Change of clothes • Extra socks and underwear • Rain jacket or poncho • Warm layer (fleece or sweater) • Comfortable walking shoes (if not already wearing them) Communication & Power • Fully charged power bank • Charging cables, wall charger • Battery or hand-crank radio • Spare batteries Important Documents & Money • Copies of ID, insurance cards & important documents • Computer backup • Emergency contact list • Paper map of your area • Cash in small bills • Spare house and vehicle keys Personal & Hygiene Items • Toothbrush and toothpaste • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes • Toilet paper or tissues • Small towel • Glasses or contact lens supplies Pet Essentials • Pet food and bottled water (3-day supply) • Food and water bowls • Leash, harness, and carrier • Medications • Vaccination records and identification • Waste bags or litter supplies • Favorite toy or blanket for comfort • Recent photo of your pet (helpful if separated) Helpful Extras • N95 masks (for wildfire smoke, dust, or debris) • Work gloves and safety glasses • Notebook and pen • Zip-top bags • Compact tarp or plastic sheeting • Wrench to turn off utilities Remember, building a Go Bag doesn't have to be expensive or happen all at once. Add a few items each month until it's complete. The important thing is to have it ready before an emergency begins. Preparedness Tip: Store your Go Bag near your primary exit or in your vehicle. In an emergency, you may have only minutes to evacuate. Build Your Go Bag Before You Need It!

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