During a wildfire, you may need to leave at a moment’s notice. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) FireSmart team is encouraging residents to prepare a ‘grab-and-go bag’ or emergency kit to ensure you are properly equipped in the event of a sudden evacuation.

“In the case of wildfire emergencies, things can move quickly. It’s important for all citizens living within the wildfire urban interface to know what to do if they receive an order to evacuate,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Board Chair. “Now is the time to consider the needs of everyone in your care, including pets and farm animals, and ensure your emergency kit includes the items required for at least 72 hours.”

Your grab-and-go bag should include:

• Water for three days
• Nonperishable food items
• Manual can opener
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Battery-powered radio
• Candles/matches
• First Aid kit
• Medications
• Whistle
• Extra keys for your house and vehicle
• Change of clothing
• Blankets
• Toilet paper
• Cash in small bills, credit cards
• List of key contacts
• Face masks
• Personal hygiene items
• Paper, pencil or pen
• Copies of important documents (birth certificates, insurance, passports)
• Charger for cellphones, laptop and other devices
• Pet food and bowls
• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses/contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, and wipes