Author: Scottie

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How To Prepare for Fall and Winter Now That Summer is Over?

Prepare for Fall and Winter

Start now by reviewing what you’ll need for cooler weather, then take a few simple, organized steps to get your home, wardrobe, health, and schedule ready for fall and winter.

Step‑by‑Step Guide: Getting Ready for the Cooler Seasons

Take Inventory of What You Have           

  • Walk through closets, pantry, garage, and your home’s exterior. Write down what you already own that’s still usable (coats, boots, blankets, snow‑shovels, etc.) and what’s missing or worn out.
  • Prevents buying duplicates and helps you spot gaps early.
  • Use a note app or a simple spreadsheet; label columns “Keep,” “Donate/Recycle,” “Replace.”

Refresh Your Wardrobe               

  • Pull out summer clothes and store them in airtight bags.
  • Bring forward fall/winter pieces (sweaters, scarves, waterproof jackets).
  • Repair or replace any damaged items (missing buttons, holes).
  • You’ll be comfortable when temperatures drop and avoid last‑minute shopping frenzies.
  • Add a “layering” piece (light fleece or cardigan) for unpredictable weather.

Prepare Your Home’s Exterior   

  • Clean gutters and downspouts.
  • Check the roof for loose shingles or leaks.
  • Service the furnace, heat pump, or fireplace.
  • Stock up on ice melt, sand, and a good snow shovel.
  • A well‑maintained exterior prevents water damage, frozen pipes, and costly emergency repairs.

Schedule a professional HVAC tune‑up now; many companies offer a “pre‑season discount.”

  • Insulate and Seal             
  • Apply weather‑stripping to doors and windows.
  • Add door sweeps to exterior doors.
  • Put up draft stoppers or rolled towels at the base of windows that feel cold.
  • Keeps warm air inside, reduces heating bills, and makes your home more comfortable.
  • Use a candle test: hold a lit candle near a window; if the flame flickers, you have a draft.

Update Your Emergency Kit       

  • Replace expired batteries, food, and water.
  • Add extra blankets, a portable phone charger, and a small first‑aid kit.
  • Include a list of local shelters and contact numbers.
  • Power outages and storms are more common in winter; a ready kit keeps you safe.
  • Keep the kit in an easy‑to‑reach spot (e.g., garage shelf) and tell every household member where it is.

Schedule Health Check‑ups       

  • Get a checkup.
  • Book any dental or vision appointments before the holidays.
  • Review your prescription refills and consider a vitamin D supplement.
  • Staying healthy reduces the chance of missing work or school when the weather turns.
  • Many pharmacies offer walk‑in flu shots without an appointment.

Plan Your Finances         

  • Review your budget for higher heating costs, holiday gifts, and travel.
  • Set aside a small “winter fund” (e.g., $50‑$100 per month).
  • Check that your home insurance covers winter‑related damage.
  • Prevents financial stress when unexpected expenses arise.
  • Use a budgeting app to track heating usage and adjust as needed.

Adjust Your Daily Routines          

  • Shift workout times to indoor spaces if daylight hours shrink.
  • Add a “wind‑down” ritual (warm tea, reading) to combat shorter evenings.
  • Schedule regular “home‑check” evenings to spot early signs of leaks or drafts.
  • Helps you stay active, maintain mental health, and catch problems early.
  • Try a 10‑minute stretch routine after work; it’s easier when it’s cold outside.

Organize Seasonal Activities       

  • Look up local fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and winter sports venues.
  • Book tickets or reservations early (ski passes, holiday markets).
  • Create a simple calendar of “must‑do” events.
  • Gives you something to look forward to and ensures you don’t miss out due to last‑minute planning.
  • Use a shared family Google Calendar so everyone stays in the loop.

Review Your Transportation       

  • Check tire tread and consider switching to winter tires if you live in a snowy area.
  • Top off antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and battery health.
  • Keep a small emergency car kit (blanket, flashlight, snacks).
  • Improves safety on slick roads and reduces the chance of being stranded. Many auto shops offer a “winter readiness” inspection for a flat fee

Quick Recap Checklist

  • [ ] Inventory & declutter summer items
  • [ ] Repair/replace wardrobe pieces
  • [ ] Clean gutters & service heating system
  • [ ] Seal windows/doors and add insulation
  • [ ] Refresh emergency kit
  • [ ] Get health check‑ups
  • [ ] Adjust budget for higher heating/holiday costs
  • [ ] Set new daily routines for shorter days
  • [ ] Plan fall/winter activities and book early
  • [ ] Prepare your car for cold weather

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

You play a critical role in your preparedness. By tackling each of these steps now—while the weather is still mild—you’ll glide into fall and winter feeling organized, comfortable, and financially prepared. Happy prepping!

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How To Make My Family Safe During A Heat Wave?

How To Make My Family Safe During A Heat Wave

Here’s what you can do to prepare your family:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids throughout the day.
  • Create a cool space in your home by using fans, shades, or curtains to block direct sunlight.

You should also monitor the temperature inside and outside your home.

  • Use a thermometer to track the temperature.
  • Check online or through a weather app if you don’t have one.

When it comes to outdoor activities:

  • Limit them to early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
  • Take regular breaks in a shaded or cool area.

Dressing for the heat is also essential:

  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Additionally, check on vulnerable family members regularly:

  • Children, people over 70, and people with medical conditions are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

These injuries are serious health issues that can occur when your body can’t regulate its temperature properly.

There are three main types of heat injuries:

  • Heat Cramps: Muscle spasms that occur during or after intense exercise in hot environments.
  • Heat Exhaustion: A condition that happens when your body loses too much water and salt, usually through excessive sweating.
  • Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition that occurs when your body’s temperature regulation system fails, causing your temperature to rise rapidly.

Signs and symptoms:

  • Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms, usually in the legs, arms, or abdomen.
  • Heat Exhaustion:
    • Heavy sweating
    • Pale and cool skin
    • Fast and weak pulse
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Dizziness or fainting
  • Heat Stroke:
    • High body temperature (above 103°F)
    • Confusion or altered mental state
    • Loss of consciousness
    • Slurred speech
    • Seizures

What to do if you or someone else experiences heat injuries:

  • Heat Cramps: Stop activity, rest in a cool place, and drink water or a sports drink.
  • Heat Exhaustion:
    • Move to a cool place
    • Remove excess clothing
    • Cool down with water or a cool cloth
    • Drink water or a sports drink
  • Heat Stroke:
    • Call emergency services immediately
    • Move to a cool place
    • Remove excess clothing
    • Cool down with water or a cool cloth

Prevention is key.

Can you take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from heat injuries?

Prepare an emergency kit:

Include these essential items:

  • Water: Store at least 1 gallon per person per day for 3-5 days.
  • Non-perishable snacks: Choose lightweight, high-calorie foods like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
  • First-aid manual: A guide to help you respond to heat-related illnesses.
  • Medications: If you or a family member takes prescription medications, ensure you have a sufficient supply.

    Cooling supplies:
  • Fans
  • Misting bottles
  • Cool cloths

    Communication devices:
  • Cell phone with charger
  • Two-way radio or walkie-talkie

    Personal documents:
  • Identification
  • Insurance cards
  • Emergency contact information

    Extra supplies:
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Battery-powered radio

Consider the specific needs of your family:

  • Baby and child supplies: Formula, diapers, and child-specific medications.
  • Pet supplies: Food, water, and medicines for your pets.

Review and update your kit regularly:

  • Check expiration dates of supplies.
  • Ensure all family members know where the kit is located.

Is your emergency kit ready for a heat wave?

Are you prepared to take action and keep your family safe during a heat wave?

Get the appropriate training so you can help your family in a heat wave.
Knowledge is the easiest tool to carry!

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

You play a critical role in your preparedness. By following these steps, you can improve your family’s readiness and be better equipped to handle unexpected heat waves. What steps can you take today to start building your preparedness?

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Why Is Fitness So Crucial For Successful Preparedness?

Fitness is key to survival

Fitness is crucial for successful preparedness because it enables you to respond effectively to physical challenges and emergencies. Above all, it is vital to ensure you can protect yourself and others in critical situations.

The PNW Survival Games tested our survival skills, physical fitness, and mental toughness.

Here’s a detailed guide to understanding the importance of fitness for preparedness:

Assess Your Current Fitness

Evaluate your current level of physical fitness by taking into account factors like:

  • Your current weight and body composition
  • Your level of cardiovascular endurance
  • Your muscular strength and endurance
  • Your flexibility and mobility

Identify Potential Risks

Consider the types of emergencies or challenges you may face, such as:

  • Natural disasters
  • Extended power outages
  • Medical emergencies
  • Physical confrontations

Develop a Fitness Plan

Create a tailored fitness plan that addresses your specific needs and goals, including:

  • A workout routine that suits your lifestyle
  • A balanced diet that supports your fitness goals
  • A schedule for rest and recovery
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Always consult a physician

Focus on Functional Fitness

Incorporate functional exercises into your routine, such as:

  • Walk on a daily basis
  • Squats and lunges for strength and mobility
  • Cardio exercises like running or swimming for endurance
  • Core exercises like planks and crunches for stability

Practice Scenario-Based Training

Simulate emergency scenarios through training exercises, such as:

Build Mental Resilience

Develop mental toughness through techniques like:

  • Meditation and mindfulness
  • Positive self-talk
  • Stress management

Stay Equipped and Informed

Remain up-to-date with the latest information and equipment, such as:

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

You play a critical role in your preparedness. By following these steps, you can improve your fitness and be better equipped to handle unexpected challenges. What steps can you take today to start building your preparedness?

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NW Survival Takes on the PNW Survival Games

NW Survival training in the wilderness

A Test of Endurance and Skills

This weekend, NW Survival, a local survival skills training organization, will be competing in the highly anticipated PNW Survival Games. This premier event puts teams to the test in a grueling display of endurance, strategy, and wilderness survival skills.

The PNW Survival Games, now in its third year, has become a staple in the survival community. Attracting top teams from across the Pacific Northwest. The competition will take place in the Oregon Wilderness, where teams will face challenging obstacles, harsh weather conditions, and limited resources.

NW Survival, led by experienced instructors and survival experts, has been training individuals and teams in wilderness survival skills for years. With a strong focus on hands-on learning and real-world application, their team is well-prepared to take on the best of the best in the PNW Survival Games.

“We’re excited to put our skills to the test and see how we stack up against other top teams,” said Scott Mize, lead instructor at NW Survival. “Our team has been training hard, and we’re confident that our expertise in wilderness survival, navigation, and teamwork will serve us well in this competition.”

The PNW Survival Games will consist of several challenges, including:

  • Weatherproof Shelter Building
  • Water Purification & Filtration
  • Fire & Ice (Fire Starting Challenge)
  • Camouflage & Evasion
  • Hunting & Primitive Weapons Building
  • Self-Rescue Raft Building

The team from NW Survival is comprised of experienced instructors and survival experts, each bringing their unique skills and expertise to the table.

“We’re looking forward to a challenging and fun competition,” said Steve Douglas. “Our team is well-prepared, and we’re excited to see how we perform.”

The PNW Survival Games will take place on Saturday and Sunday, with teams competing in a series of challenges throughout the weekend. The team with the most points at the end of the competition will be crowned the winner.

Competition Details:

  • Date: August 15th–17th, 2025
  • Location: Molalla Ripple Campground
  • Teams: 25 teams competing, including NW Survival
  • Challenges: Shelter Building, Fire Starting, Self-Rescue, and more

NW Survival will be providing updates from the competition on their social media channels, so be sure to follow them to stay up-to-date on their progress.

Follow NW Survival:

Stay tuned for updates from the PNW Survival Games, and good luck to NW Survival as they take on the best of the best in this exciting competition!

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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How do I prepare myself and my family for a lethal force encounter?

Lethal Force Encounter

Preparing for the Unthinkable: A Guide to Lethal Force Encounters

To prepare yourself and your family for a lethal force encounter, it is essential to develop a proactive and informed mindset, combining awareness, communication, and practical training to minimize risk and ensure a safe response.

Preparing for a lethal force encounter is an uncomfortable but crucial aspect of personal and family safety. While the likelihood of such an event is low, being prepared can significantly reduce the risk and impact. Here’s a guide to help you and your family prepare:

Understand the Risks and Reality

Familiarize yourself with the types of situations that may escalate to lethal force encounters, such as home invasions, armed robberies, or violent confrontations. Acknowledge that these situations can happen to anyone, and being prepared is key to survival.

Develop a Family Safety Plan

Gather your family and discuss the following:
* Identify safe zones in your home, such as a panic room or a secure area.
* Designate a meeting point outside the home in case of an emergency.
* Establish a communication plan, including a safe word or phrase to signal danger.

Learn Self-Defense and Firearm Safety (If Applicable)

Consider taking self-defense classes or training in firearm safety and usage, if you choose to own a firearm. This will help you and your family members develop the skills and confidence to respond effectively in a crisis.

Conduct Regular Safety Drills

Practice your family safety plan with regular drills, simulating different scenarios, such as a home invasion or a confrontation while out in public. This will help your family react instinctively and safely in a real-life situation.

Stay Informed

Stay up-to-date on local crime trends and be aware of your surroundings, trusting your instincts to avoid potentially hazardous situations. Keep your emergency contact numbers and a fully charged phone nearby.

Consider Professional Help and Resources

Consult with a reputable self-defense expert, firearms instructor, or personal safety coach to receive personalized guidance and training. Utilize online resources, such as safety apps, emergency preparedness guides, and crisis management websites.

Review and Update Your Plan

Regularly review and update your family safety plan to ensure everyone is on the same page and that your plan remains effective. As your family grows or circumstances change, adjust your plan accordingly.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

By following these steps, you and your family can develop a proactive approach to personal safety, minimizing the risk of a lethal force encounter and ensuring a safe response if the unthinkable happens.

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Why Medical Training is a Must for Every U.S. Citizen?

Motorcycle accident

Medical training is crucial for the average U.S. citizen because it empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed health decisions, prevent illnesses, and effectively navigate the healthcare system.

A Guide to Understanding the Importance of Medical Training

Understanding Your Body and Health

Medical training starts with understanding how your body works and what you can do to keep it healthy. This includes learning about nutrition, exercise, and stress management. By knowing what constitutes a healthy lifestyle, you can make choices that reduce your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Learning Basic First Aid and Emergency Response

Medical training also involves learning basic first aid and emergency response skills, such as CPR, using an automated external defibrillator (AED), and treating wounds. These skills can save lives in emergency situations and help you respond effectively until professional medical help arrives.

Understanding Common Health Conditions

Medical training helps you understand common health conditions, their symptoms, and how they are treated. This knowledge enables you to recognize when you or a family member needs medical attention and to make informed decisions about treatment options.

Navigating the Healthcare System

The U.S. healthcare system can be complex, but medical training helps you navigate it effectively. This includes understanding your health insurance, choosing the right healthcare provider, and knowing when to seek a second opinion.

Practicing Preventive Care

Preventive care is a critical aspect of medical training. This includes learning about the importance of regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations. By staying on top of preventive care, you can detect health problems early, when they are easier to treat.

Managing Chronic Conditions

If you have a chronic condition, medical training helps you manage it effectively. This includes understanding your condition, adhering to treatment plans, and making lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Staying Informed and Up-to-Date

Finally, medical training is an ongoing process. It involves staying informed about the latest health information, research, and guidelines. By staying up-to-date, you can continue to make informed health decisions and adapt to new information and recommendations.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

By taking these steps and prioritizing medical training, you can take control of your health, make informed decisions, and live a healthier, happier life. You can help ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to face a medical issue with confidence and resilience, and that you have the necessary skills, supplies, and support to survive and thrive during a disaster.

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How do I prepare for civil unrest?

How do I prepare for civil unrest?

To prepare for civil unrest, create a comprehensive emergency plan that includes staying informed, having a safe room or shelter, stockpiling essential supplies, and establishing a communication plan with family and loved ones.

1: Stay Informed

Stay informed about potential hotspots and areas of conflict, as well as any planned protests or demonstrations in your area. Sign up for emergency alerts from your local government or law enforcement agency, and follow reputable news sources and social media accounts to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. Consider investing in a shortwave radio or a NOAA Weather Radio to receive emergency alerts and updates.

2: Identify Safe Zones and Evacuation Routes

Identify safe zones and evacuation routes in your area, including areas that are likely to be targeted by protesters or rioters. Make a map of your neighborhood or community, marking safe zones, such as police stations, fire stations, or other secure locations. Identify multiple evacuation routes, in case some roads are blocked or impassable.

3: Stockpile Essential Supplies

  • Food and water (at least3-5 days’ worth)
  • First aid kit and medical supplies
  • Flashlights, batteries, and alternative lighting sources
  • Battery-powered radio and/or a NOAA Weather Radio
  • Extra cash and important documents (e.g., insurance policies, identification)
  • Personal protective equipment, such as gas masks or gloves

4: Create a Safe Room or Shelter
Ideally, on an interior floor or in a basement.

  • Secure, with sturdy doors and windows
  • Stocked with essential supplies, such as food, water, and a first aid kit
  • Equipped with communication devices, such as a phone or two-way radio
  • Protected from potential hazards, such as broken glass or falling debris

5: Establish a Communication Plan
With family and loved ones.

  • Designating a meeting point, in case you get separated
  • Establishing a communication protocol, such as a code word or signal
  • Making sure everyone knows how to use a two-way radio or other communication device
  • Having a plan for reuniting with family members, if you are separated

6: Stay Adaptable

Finally, stay adaptable and be prepared to adjust your plan as needed. Civil unrest can be unpredictable and rapidly changing, so it’s essential to stay informed and be prepared to respond quickly.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to face a grid-down disaster with confidence and resilience, and that you have the necessary skills, supplies, and support to survive and thrive during civil unrest.

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How do I prepare for an economic disaster?

prepare for an economic disaster

To prepare for an economic disaster, create a solid financial foundation by following a step-by-step approach that includes assessing your financial situation, building an emergency fund, diversifying your income and investments, and developing a plan for sustainable living.

Step 1: Assess Your Financial Situation

Start by taking a close look at your current financial situation. Make a list of your income, expenses, debts, and assets. Identify areas where you can cut back on unnecessary expenses and allocate that money towards savings and debt repayment. Consider using the 50/30/20 rule: allocate 50% of your income towards necessary expenses, such as rent and utilities; 30% towards discretionary spending; and 20% towards saving and debt repayment.

Step 2: Build an Emergency Fund

Next, focus on building an emergency fund that can cover at least 6-12 months of living expenses. This fund should be easily accessible and liquid, such as a high-yield savings account or a money market fund. Having a cushion of savings will help you weather financial shocks, such as job loss or unexpected expenses. Aim to save 10-20% of your income each month towards this fund.

Step 3: Diversify Your Income and Investments

Diversify your income streams to reduce your reliance on a single source of income. This could include starting a side hustle, investing in dividend-paying stocks, or pursuing alternative sources of income, such as real estate or peer-to-peer lending. Also, diversify your investments to reduce your exposure to market volatility. Consider a mix of low-risk investments, such as bonds and CDs, and higher-risk investments, such as stocks and real estate.

Step 4: Develop a Plan for Sustainable Living

  • Building a stockpile of non-perishable food and household essentials
  • Investing in a home garden or alternative food sources, such as a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program
  • Developing skills that can help you barter or trade for goods and services, such as gardening, cooking, or first aid
  • Identifying local resources and community networks that can provide support during an economic crisis

Step 5: Stay Informed and Adaptable

Finally, stay informed about economic trends and be prepared to adapt your plan as needed. Monitor news and financial reports, and adjust your investment strategy and spending habits accordingly. Consider working with a financial advisor or planner to help you navigate complex financial decisions.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to face a grid-down disaster with confidence and resilience, and that you have the necessary skills, supplies, and support to survive and thrive during an extended economic disaster.

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How do you prepare for a grid-down disaster?

family during grid-down

To prepare for a grid-down disaster, create a comprehensive emergency plan by following a step-by-step approach that includes assessing your needs, gathering essential supplies, and establishing a reliable source of power and communication.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Start by identifying the potential risks and hazards in your area, such as natural disasters, power outages, or economic downturns. Consider the number of people who will rely on you for support, including family members, pets, and individuals with functional needs. Create a list of the essential systems and services you rely on, such as refrigeration, lighting, and communication systems. This will help you prioritize your preparations and ensure that you’re focusing on the most critical areas.

Step 2: Gather Essential Supplies

  • Non-perishable food and water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
  • First aid kit and medical supplies
  • Flashlights, batteries, and alternative lighting sources
  • Battery-powered radio and/or a NOAA Weather Radio
  • Extra cash and important documents (e.g., insurance policies, identification)
  • Personal hygiene items and sanitation supplies

Step 3: Establish a Reliable Source of Power

  • Solar panels or a portable solar generator
  • A gas-powered or battery-powered generator
  • A battery bank or deep-cycle batteries
  • A backup power source for critical systems, such as a refrigerator or medical equipment

Step 4: Establish Communication and Safety Protocols

  • A two-way radio or walkie-talkie
  • A cell phone with a solar charger or backup power source
  • A whistle or other signaling device to call for help
  • A safe place to shelter, such as a basement or storm cellar
  • A plan for defending yourself and your loved ones, if necessary

Step 5: Review and Update Your Plan

Finally, review and update your plan regularly to ensure that it remains effective and relevant. Practice your plan with your loved ones, ensuring everyone understands their role and responsibilities.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to face a grid-down disaster with confidence and resilience, and that you have the necessary skills, supplies, and support to survive and thrive during an extended power outage.

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Why Do I Need A Get Me Home Bag?

Get Me Home Bag

A “Get Me Home Bag” helps you return home safely in the event of an emergency. It’s different from a bug-out bag. You’re not evacuating. You’re heading home. Build your Get Me Home Bag around your commute distance, location, and likely threats. Think of weather, civil unrest, or a power outage.

You need a Get Me Home Bag because emergencies rarely give warnings.

Disasters can strike while you’re away from home. Power outages. Severe weather. Gridlock. Civil unrest. You might be stuck without public transport. Your car might not start. Roads might be blocked.

Your goal: get home safely.

Here’s why a Get Me Home Bag matters:

  • You spend hours away from home. Work, errands, travel—you’re not always nearby. Can you walk back if needed?
  • Emergencies disrupt regular routines. Phones die. ATMs go offline. Stores close. You can’t rely on usual comforts.
  • Most people aren’t prepared. Waiting for help isn’t always an option. A Get Me Home Bag gives you control.

Imagine these scenarios:

  • You’re 15 miles from home. A massive blackout hits. Traffic lights fail. Gas stations shut down. You have to walk.
  • A chemical spill blocks the freeway. You’re forced to leave your car. Your shoes aren’t made for walking.
  • A storm floods your city. Cell networks go down. You need to navigate unfamiliar streets on foot, in the rain.

Would you be ready?

A Get Me Home Bag gives you options.

  • Water when there’s none
  • Food when stores are closed
  • Shoes made for walking
  • Weather protection
  • Basic medical care
  • Tools to get through roadblocks or detours

Your Get Me Home Bag bridges the gap between unprepared and safe.

You’re not planning to survive off-grid. You’re planning to get from point A to point B—alive, safe, and in control.

Ask yourself:

  • How far am I from home during the day?
  • What risks are common in my area?
  • Can I rely on public systems when they fail?
  • Can I walk home with what I have right now?

If the answer is no, it’s time to build your Get Me Home Bag.

One small backpack can make a huge difference when things go wrong.

Start with a durable backpack

  • Choose something you can carry comfortably for hours
  • Avoid tactical-looking bags; blend in
  • Keep it small enough to stash in your car or under your desk

Pack water and ways to purify it

  • 1–2 bottles of water
  • Collapsible bottle for refills
  • A water filter like a Sawyer Mini or LifeStraw
  • Purification tablets as a backup

Add compact, calorie-dense food

  • Energy bars, jerky, trail mix
  • No need to pack meals
  • Choose food that won’t melt or spoil in your car

Bring walking gear

  • Broken-in walking shoes, if you wear office shoes daily
  • Spare socks
  • Weather-appropriate hat and gloves
  • A rain poncho or a lightweight jacket

Carry a basic first aid kit

  • Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers
  • Blister care (moleskin or band-aids)
  • Small trauma supplies if your area has higher risks

Include tools and gear

  • Multi-tool with blade, pliers, and screwdriver
  • Flashlight with extra batteries or a headlamp
  • Power bank for your phone
  • USB charging cable
  • Lighter and waterproof matches
  • A pen and a small notebook
  • Paracord or strong cordage

Add items for navigation and communication

  • Printed map of your area and routes home
  • Compass
  • List of emergency contacts on paper
  • Small AM/FM radio

Think about personal protection

  • Pepper spray
  • Sturdy stick or baton
  • If licensed and trained, a concealed carry weapon

Know the laws in your area. Don’t carry what you can’t legally use.

Pack for hygiene and comfort

  • Wet wipes
  • Travel-size toothpaste and brush
  • Toilet paper or tissues
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Lip balm
  • Sunglasses

Adapt the contents to your environment

  • Cold climate? Add gloves, a beanie, and a thermal blanket
  • Hot climate? Add sunscreen and electrolyte tablets
  • Urban area? Think about blending in and avoiding crowds
  • Rural area? You may need more navigation tools and time

Keep it ready, keep it with you

  • Check your bag every season
  • Rotate water and snacks
  • Test your gear periodically
  • Know your walking routes

Ask yourself:

  • How far can I realistically walk in a day?
  • What obstacles might I face on foot?
  • What if it’s dark or raining?
  • Who do I need to get home to?

Your Get Me Home Bag is peace of mind in a small pack. You may never need it. But if you do, you’ll be glad it’s ready. Keep it close. Don’t overpack. Focus on mobility. Stay calm, stay smart, and get home.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

These steps ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive when it comes to safety and preparedness.

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