Welcome to Week 1 of the Lane County “6 Weeks of Ready” campaign.  We are glad you're here! 

Disasters can strike with little or no warning. Whether it's a wildfire, flood, hurricane, or even a prolonged power outage, your ability to respond quickly and safely depends on one critical factor: being prepared. This week, we’re taking a deeper look at how to build a Go Kit and gather essential emergency supplies to help you stay safe and self-sufficient during the first critical days of a disaster.

Why It Matters

In an emergency, time is not on your side. Roads may be closed. Stores may be empty. Power, water, and communication systems may be down. Having the right supplies—ready to go at a moment’s notice or available at home if you're sheltering in place—can make all the difference. Being prepared isn’t just about peace of mind—it can save lives.

What are the hazards?

Begin by identifying the hazards that affect you where you live and work by going to the Oregon HazVu: Statewide Geohazards Viewer.  The primary natural hazards that affect Lane County are flood, earthquake, tsunami, winter storms, drought, wildfire, coastal erosion, and landslide.  Focus on understanding which hazards affect you will help you better plan and prepare.  

What Is a Go Kit?

A Go Kit is a portable collection of essential items you may need if you have to evacuate quickly. Think of it as your personal emergency suitcase—something you can grab and go with no hesitation. 

Your Go Kit should include:

• Water – At least one gallon per person, per day (for 3 days)
• Non-perishable food – Ready-to-eat items like energy bars, canned goods, dried fruits
• Medications – A week’s supply of prescription and over-the-counter meds
• First aid kit
• Important documents – Copies of IDs, insurance, prescriptions, medical records
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Multi-tool or basic tools
• Personal hygiene items
• Cash – In small bills
• Phone charger and power bank
• Face masks and hand sanitizer
• Change of clothes and sturdy shoes

Tip: Customize your Go Kit for pets, babies, elderly family members, or anyone with special needs-- learn how in Week 4

Emergency Supplies for Sheltering in Place

Not all emergencies require evacuation. Sometimes, the safest choice is to stay where you are. But that means having the right supplies on hand to support you and your family for several days without outside help. In addition to what’s in your Go Kit, your home emergency supply should include:

• Additional water and food for at least 3–7 days
• Manual can opener
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency alerts
• Blankets and warm clothing
• Sanitation supplies – trash bags, toilet paper, disinfectant
• Backup power sources for medical devices or essential electronics

Make It Manageable

Building a Go Kit or emergency stockpile doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. Start small:

• Add a few items each week to your shopping list to prepare gradually—here is a step-by-step shopping list designed to help you gather a 2-week supply over the course of 12 weeks.
•  Repurpose items you already have at home
• Store everything in a waterproof backpack or bin in an easy-to-reach place

Take Action This Week

✅ Check what you already have

✅ Start building your Go Kit

✅ Talk to your family about what each person needs

✅ Practice grabbing your kit and getting out quickly

Think about who else you need to consider, and what additional items are needed beyond the basic supplies.  We've provided additional links and resources some links and resources here that go beyond the basics.  

Additional Resources

Low- and No-Cost Preparedness Ideas

How to Build an Emergency Backpack Kit (Red Cross video)

DIY Home Emergency Preparedness Kit (Video)