PREPAREDNESS IN THE CLOSET
How to Organize for Safety and Emergencies
As our community is battling devastating wildfires, we’re reminded of the importance of preparedness—both for safety and peace of mind. While our closets are spaces for fashion and organization, they often house some of our most personal and sentimental belongings, and with the right preparation can serve as functional zones for emergency readiness. By dedicating a small section of your closet to essential safety items, you’ll be better equipped to act quickly and with clarity during uncertain times.
Here are a few thoughtful ways to organize your closet with preparedness in mind:
1. Create a Grab-and-Go Emergency Zone
Designate a specific area in your closet—perhaps a shelf, drawer, or cubby—for emergency essentials. Having these items in one centralized location can help reduce panic and save precious time if you need to leave quickly. Some must-haves include:
A fully packed "go-bag" with clothes, sturdy shoes, and toiletries.
Copies of important documents like IDs, insurance policies, and medical records stored in a waterproof and fireproof folder.
A first-aid kit, flashlights, and extra batteries, along with a checklist of any necessary medications stored elsewhere in the house.
Non-perishable snacks and a refillable water bottle.
Pro Tip: Make this section easily accessible, even in the dark. Consider installing motion-sensor or battery-powered lighting in your closet to help you locate items quickly.
2. Store Critical Personal Items Nearby
Keep your most valuable and irreplaceable items in a secure and easy-to-grab location. This might include:
Passports, birth certificates, and other key documents.
Sentimental jewelry or small heirlooms.
Medications and spare glasses or contact lenses.
Backup chargers or power banks for phones and other devices.
If you have a fireproof safe, integrate it into your closet design to provide an added layer of security for these items. This ensures your most critical belongings are not only accessible but also protected in the event you don’t have time to pack everything.
3. Think Practically About Clothing
While it’s tempting to grab your most beloved pieces, in an emergency, comfort and durability matter most. Keep the following items within reach:
Sturdy sneakers or boots for mobility.
A lightweight but warm jacket, especially if you’re in a colder climate.
Versatile, weather-appropriate clothing that allows for layering. Store these items in a dedicated bin or tote in your closet, so you don’t need to hunt for them during an evacuation.
4. Be Ready for Seasonal Changes
Your closet’s emergency zone isn’t static—it should shift with the seasons. For example:
In cooler months, add scarves, gloves, and hats to your go-bag.
During warmer months, include lightweight sun protection items like a hat and sunscreen. Rotating your items seasonally keeps your emergency supplies practical and tailored to current needs.
5. Prioritize Accessibility
Make sure your emergency essentials are easy to grab. If your closet design allows, use open shelving, labels, or clear containers to keep everything visible. For homes with limited space, consider vertical storage solutions like hanging pouches or wall-mounted hooks for lightweight items like keys or flashlights.
A Note on Preparedness and Peace of Mind
Organizing your closet for safety isn’t about material belongings—it’s about ensuring your family’s well-being and reducing the stress of uncertainty. It’s also a great idea to have videos of your home and your closet uploaded to the cloud somewhere, for reference in the event of replacement or insurance claims. By proactively setting up an emergency zone in your closet, you’ll create a small but significant safeguard that makes a huge difference when time is of the essence.
We’re thinking of everyone impacted by these wildfires and want to do our part to help.
Below, we’ve included organizations providing local relief, donations, and resources for those in need.