This is an excerpt from my PDF ‘The Preparedness Encyclopedia (TPE)’.
Download the PDF Version Here
In general your BOB should be packed and ready to grab and go at a moments notice, however there’s a few reasons why some items won’t always be stored in the bag. Some of the below items are stored in containers and therefore require a key.
You do NOT want to waste time searching for a key to your safe or weapons locker in an emergency because it could cost you your life. Ensure you either have your keys on you at all times or you know exactly where they are and can easily get to them without going through multiple security barriers.
Essential Gear
● Borrowed Items: If you’re the type to borrow items from your pack when you go camping or hiking you should be sure to return them immediately afterwards.
● On Display: Some items such as family pictures will be displayed on mantles and desks, so be sure you know where they are and grab them before you go if you want them. An alternative is to have digital versions or duplicates in your pack.
● Refrigerated Items: Medicines and drugs should be stored at a cooler ambient temperature, therefore you should only grab these at the last minute to maximise their life.
● Valuables: You may have a separate location for your valuables such as a safe or they could be diversified around your home or work office, or even perhaps a safety deposit box.
● SCAR Bags: You may have specific bags for this type of emergency stored around the house, in addition to your primary BOB like pandemic medical gear.
● Weapons: Weapons are generally stored in special containers to ensure their compliance with the law, therefore you have to remember to grab them before you leave.
● Volatiles: Volatiles are items which have to be stored separately from general living quarters due to the hazard they pose to general safety. These kinds of items can include: Gas Canisters, Fuel (Petrol, Diesel, LPG) and dangerous chemicals such as kerosene, calcium hypochlorite (used in water purification) and shellite.
Unessential Gear
Before you need to bug-out there may be a bit of spare time to grab a few extra items around your home, particularly if you’re never coming back. The following list provides ideas on the most important non-essential items.
● Digital Records: Computer hard drives and other storage media could prove useful if you aren’t ever coming home and you rely on your files. There may also be personal files on them which shouldn’t get into the hands of anyone else.
● Memories: Photographs, memorabilia, personal items etc can provide a vital function in keeping up morale.
● Important Documents: Leaving any important documents (such as your birth certificate) in your home could end in a stolen identity. You should either bring these documents with you, including copies or burn them – in the case of copies.
● Spares: Grab any spare pantry snacks, food, water, gas canisters, batteries and candles you have around your home if you’re bugging out via car and have some spare time.
