LIST: Items to pack in both a go bag and stay bag in event of emergency

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- With recent local events such as the Richmond area water crisis and winter storms, many residents may be thinking of how to prepare in the event of a future emergency. Here's what the U.S. Department of State recommends packing in a go bag and a stay bag.

For a go bag, which you would take with you in the event of traveling during an emergency, the department suggests packing the following items:

• Money
  • ATM and credit cards
  • Checkbook
• Medical items
  • Medical and dental records
  • Immunization cards
  • Glasses and contacts
  • Prescriptions and medications
  • Small First Aid kit
• Personal belongings
  • Clothing
  • Toys and games
  • Pet items
  • Cell phone
  • Chargers for all electronics
  • Small toiletry kit
• Food and water
  • Snacks
  • Water
• Documentation
  • Passport(s) and Visas
  • Marriage, birth, adoption and naturalization certificates
  • Driver's license
  • Auto insurance policies, registrations and title if applicable
  • Power of attorney and will
  • School records
  • Pet records
  • Household effects inventory

For a stay bag, meaning a bag packed with gear you would need if you were to stay at home during an emergency, the department recommends packing the following items:

• Personal belongings
  • Small toiletry kit
  • Change of clothes
  • Sensible shoes
  • Towel
  • Sleeping bag
  • Pillow
  • Entertainment items
  • Chargers for electronics
• Medical items
  • Small First Aid kit
  • Prescription medication
  • Over the counter medication
  • Glasses and contacts
• Food and water
  • Reusable water bottle/water
  • Snacks
  • Meal items: microwave meal, soup, tuna packets/cans
• Emergency items
  • Flashlight, LED
  • Laminated list of emergency phone numbers
  • Laminated building floor plan
  • Multi-purpose tool
  • Whistle

If you live in a flooding prone area, the department said you could consider adding rain gear, insect repellant and a tarp.