The emergency bag – one backpack for when you have to leave fast
Sometimes you have to leave home quickly – because of a flood, a fire, a gas leak or an evacuation. Then a packed backpack helps. One backpack per person, no more: it keeps both hands free, a suitcase does not.
What goes in
- personal medication
- first-aid supplies
- a radio with batteries and spare batteries
- food for two days in dust-proof packaging
- a water bottle
- crockery and cutlery, can opener, pocket knife
- a torch with spare batteries
- a sleeping bag or blanket
- clothes for a few days with rain protection, a hat
- work gloves
- hygiene items for a few days, such as pads, tampons or nappies
- FFP2 masks
- a phone with a camera or a camera to document damage
- your document folder (there is a separate article on it)
For children
A neck pouch or SOS capsule with name, date of birth and address helps if you get separated in a confusing situation.
Grab at the last moment
You cannot pack these in advance because you need them every day:
- ID card or passport
- cash and bank card
- health insurance card, vaccination record
- house and car keys
- mobile phone
Getting dressed
Dress in several layers, with a rain jacket and sturdy, weatherproof shoes or rubber boots.
Keep it up to date
Check the backpack once a year, for example in spring: do the clothes still fit? Are medication and food still in date? Do the batteries work?