The Oklahoma State Department of Health wants to help you be prepared for an emergency.

One of the essential items to have in case of an emergency is a 'go bag'. A go bag has all the necessary items you may need in the case of an emergency or disaster happens in your area. The recommended items to have in your Go Bag are:

• Water, have at least one gallon per person per day for three to five days.
• Food, pack a three to five-day supply of non-perishable food items such as canned or packaged tuna, peanut butter, canned soup or crackers, and don't forget a can opener.
• Flashlight, be sure to pack a flashlight. You may need the light to see, and it can be used as a signaling device.
• Whistle, bring a whistle or other items to make noise to signal for help, such as metal pots and pans or a metal spoon.
• Blankets, make sure you pack a blanket in case the emergency you face involves cold weather.
• Extra clothes, pack extra clothes including a coat, jacket, a raincoat or any other seasonal items you may need.
• Medication, pack any prescription medication or over the counter medication you take daily or may need often.
• Trash bags, bring some trash bags and twist ties. They have many uses and may come in handy.
• Moist towelettes, pack moist towelettes or hand sanitizers for cleanliness during a disaster.
• Dust masks, make sure to pack a dust mask for you and each person in your family in case the air is not safe to breathe.
• Maps, make sure you have up to date local maps in case GPS or other electronic systems aren't working or are not available during the emergency.
• It is also a good idea to bring your mobile phone with the car charger or a solar charger.
• Another good item to have is a NOAA Weather Radio with tone or vibration alerts.
• Extra batteries, bring an extra set of batteries for each item that requires them.
• A first aid kit, the most essential item in every go bag is a first aid kit. Make sure you have one pack, and make sure all of the contents inside are up to date.

Having a 'go bag' is a great step in preparing for an emergency. The Oklahoma State Department of Health wants you and your family to stay safe.