TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia remains highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as megathrust earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions as it sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire where three major tectonic plates meet, namely Eurasian, Indo-Australian, and Pacific tectonic plates. Recently, Mount Anak Krakatau erupted and its volcanic ash spread across Java, including Greater Jakarta, and Sumatra.
To bolster household mitigation, authorities strongly urge every family to prepare a disaster emergency bag or an emergency go bag.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) suggested using a sturdy, waterproof backpack and sealing items in plastic wrapping before placing essential supplies inside. This bag is expected to help family members survive for at least three days when emergency assistance is delayed, while facilitating a quick evacuation.
Drawing from official BNPB guidelines, here are the 11 essential items to include in a disaster emergency bag:
1. Important Documents
Store vital family documents, such as land titles, vehicle registrations, diplomas, birth certificates, family cards (KK), identity cards (KTP), passports, and insurance policies, along with photocopies in a sealed, waterproof plastic folder to prevent water damage.
2. Clothing for 3 Days
Pack comfortable changes of clothes suitable for post-disaster conditions. This includes underwear, trousers, jackets, blankets, towels, multi-purpose cloth, gloves, and raincoats to guard against extreme weather.
3. Long-Lasting Food and Tableware
Include non-perishable, non-cooking, and high-protein foods sufficient for three days, such as biscuits, ready-to-eat meals, shredded meat, canned goods, or chocolate. Regularly check expiration dates, and pack basic utensils such as a pocketknife, can opener, spoons, forks, and reusable plates.
4. Drinking Water
Provide enough clean drinking water to support basic survival for at least three days. BNPB recommends a minimum of three liters per person, ideally stored in small, durable, easy-to-carry bottles.
5. First Aid Kit and Medications
Pack essential first aid supplies—including bandages, adhesive strips, antiseptics, and painkillers—along with a three-day supply of personal prescription medications for chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes.
6. Lighting Aids
Equip the bag with reliable lighting tools, such as flashlights, headlamps, candles, and matches. Include extra batteries, or opt for hand-cranked and solar-powered lamps in case electrical grids fail.
7. Emergency Cash
Keep adequate cash on hand in small denominations to cover basic purchases for at least three days, as ATMs and electronic payment systems frequently go offline following major disasters.
8. Whistle
A compact whistle serves as an essential signaling tool to alert search-and-rescue teams or locate family members if trapped under debris or separated during an evacuation.
9. Dust Masks
Pack protective dust masks or respiratory aids to filter hazardous airborne particles, ashfall, or polluted air caused by volcanic activity or structural collapses.
10. Toiletries and Hygiene Supplies
Include basic personal hygiene items such as soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, and cotton swabs, alongside quick-sanitizing supplies like wet tissues, dry napkins, and liquid detergent.
11. Communication Devices and Radios
Keep a mobile phone, portable emergency radio, power banks, solar chargers, and spare cables to receive live updates from local authorities and maintain contact during power outages.
BNPB also advises families to pack specialized supplies based on individual household needs, including baby food, diapers, menstrual pads, or care items for the elderly. By assembling these items in advance, residents can respond swiftly and safely when unexpected emergencies arise.
Read: How to Stay Safe from Volcanic Ash Exposure: Expert Guide
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