As I’m sure you’ve noticed over the past few years, natural disasters appear to be more common than they used to be. There are a lot of factors here, including climate change, deforestation, and land development.

Whatever the reason, you may find yourself in one of these disasters. Or, if you’re lucky, just broken down on the road at 11pm at night with a flat tire in the middle of winter. 

If you aren’t prepared, you will be wishing you had the foresight to be prepared. While this might seem like doomsday ideology, there’s something to be said about having what you need in a time of emergency. 

Today I want to discuss being prepared with a simple ‘go-bag’ you can have on hand or in your vehicle for just such occasions.

According to Ready.gov, a disaster supplies kit is a collection of essentials your household may need in a time of emergency. This kit should be stored in an airtight and watertight bag or container. It should include the following:

  • Water (One gallon per person per day)
  • Food (a three day supply of non-perishables)
  • Flashlight, battery or hand-powered radio, and extra batteries
  • First aid kit, masks, garbage bags
  • Can opener, wrench, duct tape, plastic sheeting
  • Cell phones and charger, backup battery bank

As we are in winter right now, it would be a great idea to include extra gloves, scarves, or hats (if you’re in a cold climate). Single-use handwarmers could also come in handy if you end up waiting for a tow truck. Other prep sites also have recommendations for long-term kits or other weather-specific needs.

You must prepare ahead of time – because when disaster strikes, you can’t go back in time to get what you need. 

When it comes to your retirement, preparation is just as necessary. We can help you prepare your financial ‘go-bag’, so give us a call at 513-563-PLAN (7526) or head here for a free 15-minute consultation on how we can help.