When You Need to Carry Your Emergency Supplies

Be prepared: Being ready for any eventuality is the need of the hour. Worst-case scenarios of various kinds are becoming increasingly real – often without warning and with no time for preparation. The re-emergence of the ever-present risk of war, whether conventional, biological, nuclear, or cyber-technological, has marked a turning point in this context. Additionally, few could have imagined a pandemic with shutdowns and supply shortages until recently. Natural disasters, driven by climate change, no longer occur once in a century but almost every year. In these scenarios, stockpiling emergency supplies has become significantly more critical – as recommended for years by the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK).

Evacuation is a Very Specific Emergency

What is often forgotten: Even the most thoughtfully acquired emergency supplies are useless if they’re stored in the basement and you have to leave your home in a hurry. When fleeing from immediate life-threatening danger, you must leave almost everything behind except the essentials. Therefore, it’s vital to identify what the essentials are and prepare them in an easily accessible container during safe times.

Lightweight, Durable, Comfortable, and Practical

A backpack, ideally with a waist strap, is perfect for evacuation. Worn snugly, it keeps your hands free and reduces strain on your body – especially if the heavier items are packed at the top and closer to your body’s center of gravity. Recommended materials include nylon or PVC, with attention to waterproof seams and closures. Compartments and inserts for organizing items are highly useful, as is an additional waist pouch for quick access to frequently used items. A reversible cover in signal and camouflage colors can help draw the attention of rescue teams or provide concealment in dangerous situations, while also offering wind and rain protection.

For Whom and Where?

It’s crucial to consider for whom the backpack is packed – this influences the quantity and specific needs, such as medications and dietary restrictions. The environment the evacuees will be navigating is another critical factor, as forests and lakes pose very different requirements compared to volcanic landscapes or mountains.

Priority for Basic Food and Water

Water and food are essential, in that order. As fleeing often involves emotional stress and disorientation, the supplies should last at least three to four days without replenishment. Equipment for refilling supplies along the way is also helpful. In addition to long-lasting water, field or water bottles made of lightweight metal are recommended, as they can also be heated over an open flame. For food, long-lasting energy bars like CONVAR™-7 with high energy density are ideal, tailored to individual intolerances. In general, pouches are much lighter and more flexible than cans for food packaging!

Supplementing Supplies While on the Move

From the outset, some focus should be on replenishing supplies – no one knows how long the evacuation will last. Full bottles can be supplemented with additional water stored in uncoated condoms protected by a sock; water purification tablets are also advisable. If there are fish-rich waters nearby, a survival fishing kit with hooks and line, as well as a fishing net, can be invaluable. A pouch for collecting berries, mushrooms, etc., takes up little space and can be very useful, as can a small reference guide or offline app for edible plants.

Health Supplies in the Emergency Kit

Alongside personalized medication (with documentation of purpose and dosage), a first aid kit, including disinfectants, is essential. Anti-inflammatory tablets, antiseptic wipes, and antihistamines are also critical. Wound and trauma ointments can be particularly helpful considering the weight of the backpack, but don’t forget tweezers, safety pins, scissors, and protective gloves. Regardless of the season, sunscreen, sunglasses, headscarves, and skin protection products should be included. Basic toiletries like soap, dental care items, and wet wipes are indispensable, and menstrual hygiene products may also need to be considered.

Essential Tools for Outdoor Survival

Fire provides light and warmth, both invaluable. While flammable materials are plentiful, tools like storm lighters, waterproof matches, or magnesium fire starters can assist in ignition. „Pocket bellows“ can help intensify embers. Cotton pads dipped three-quarters in liquid wax can serve as mini candles when dried, lightweight, and easy to pack. Flashlights, headlamps, and a battery-powered radio are essential, with long-lasting and temperature-resistant high-quality spare batteries packed alongside. Protection from wind and rain can be ensured with a thermal blanket and rain poncho, which can be rolled and attached to the backpack. A lightweight tarp, mini tent, and mummy-shaped down sleeping bag are also useful. Cutting tools – from Swiss army knives to multifunctional survival knives with a sharpener – are indispensable, and foldable utensils make eating easier.

Irreplaceable Documents

Essential documents like ID cards, birth certificates, vaccination records, and insurance policies should be carried in waterproof pouches, with copies added for safety. A small desiccant pouch can protect against moisture damage. Vacuum-sealing regional maps and a compass, along with some small-denomination cash, is also a good idea. Include a pencil, permanent marker, chalk, waterproof notepad, and writable tape for making notes and labels.

Optional Items for Convenience

Beyond the essentials, packing an emergency backpack is a personal matter. Consider items like a disposable phone with emergency contacts, a signal mirror, a whistle, a sewing kit, or a rope for pitching tents. Depending on the size and weight of the backpack, you might include wire saws, tactical pens, multitool cards, carabiners, or even multifunction shovels (with axe).

Quick Checklist for Emergency Backpacks

Recommended by the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK):

• Personal medications
• First aid supplies
• Battery-powered radio, spare batteries
• Document folder
• Food for 2 days in airtight packaging
• Water bottle
• Dishware and utensils
• Flashlight, spare batteries
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Clothing for a few days
• Headgear
• Gloves
• Hygiene items (e.g., menstrual products, diapers) for a few days
• Protective mask, improvised respirator
• For children: ID necklace or SOS capsule with name, date of birth, and address. SOS capsules are available in department stores, pharmacies, and drugstores.

Items to take during evacuation that cannot be pre-packed, according to BBK:

• ID card / passport
• Cash, credit cards
• Health insurance card
• Vaccination record
• House and car keys
• Mobile phone / smartphone, if available, to stay in touch with family

A comprehensive checklist for planning your emergency kit is available in the „Guide to Emergency Preparedness and Proper Action in Emergency Situations“ from the BBK – Free download at Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance.