Q: A while back, in a post about safely storing important documents you briefly mentioned something called a "Grab-n-Go" tote. That sounded interesting to me, can you elaborate about it, and what goes inside?
A: This is a great time for your question as September is National Preparedness Month. In the wake of manmade and natural disasters such as 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy, it's worthwhile to be prepared for an immediate evacuation of your family from your home. A "Grab-n-Go" tote contains what you need to be prepared.
-Authorities suggest packing necessary supplies to last 72 hours. Use a heavy-duty tote marked with the date you packed your goods so you can refresh the supplies when needed. Here are two links for a supply and food list
http://www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit/
http://www.ready.gov/food
-Consider writing up an evacuation plan in case your family is not together when disaster strikes. Plans should include a meeting spot, maps, phone numbers, etc.
-Store copies of hard to replace documents inside your Grab-n-Go tote such as birth certificates, social security cards, passports, home inventory list, financial documents and some cash, in case the ATM machines are inoperable.
-Store your Grab-n-Go tote next to sleeping bags and you are one step closer to preparing your family in event of a disaster.
Getting Your Life In Order!
-S