When I was in my undergraduate days and even into early adulthood, I could move all my possessions in my car. Sometimes life comes full circle. After 50 years, moving everything that I important in my car comes around again.
The recent wildfires near my home forced me to think again about what is important to me that can fit in my car.
I wrote about “stuff” in 2020 when I had my first fire evacuation experience due to fires. As I reflected and thought about evacuating again, I prioritized my life that fit into my car. I do not have a fire bag/box ready, but I know what I would gather up quickly.
My kitties (yes, I am a childless cat lady!) would be my first concern for safety. I only need them, but it would be good to bring their litter box and food in case I could not purchase those things easily.
My second important belonging is my computer. I could use a computer anywhere to access my accounts and digital documents. I do, however, have photos stored that might be difficult to recover even if stored in the cloud. Nevertheless, having my computer gives me security.
My third priority is a lock box that has my will and other documents that are hard copy versions of what is on my computer.
Finally, I would take special quilts that my mom and sister made for me. I also have family photos that would be nice to have.
I learned a little bit from the 5-day fire evacuation in October of 2020. I would take a variety of clothing—nothing special but I would prepare for warm weather as well as cold. Someone told me that if you grab something quick, take your full laundry basket because it has the “essentials” in it.
I might also throw in camping equipment if I had time, A tent, sleeping bag, and my propane stove could be useful but like 99% of the things I own, are easily replaceable.
Those priorities would fit into my Subaru Impreza and would give me security. I could live without most “stuff.” Beloved animals and special personal mementos are not for sale. Thankfully, this time I did not have to make these decisions. Fleeing a wildfire, however, may be something I will face again. It would be a one-car limit!
Excellent plan! Now if you have room for a chicken or two…. 😂😂
Hilarious! Extra water, flashlight, food rations, a blanket (if you don’t have camping gear, and gas. I’d probably want to grab my bike, too. Things are replaceable but replacing them can be a challenge. And in FL, at least, when you’re evacuating everyone else is. So be prepared to be stuck somewhere. I think for a fire, add a deck of cards and some dice as well as one real book or Kindle. A computer can work but if it breaks or can’t be charged easily, a backup form of quiet entertainment is impt. And don’t forget all the charging cords.