When an emergency occurs there is little time to “gather a few things together.” In addition to our turnout gear, gloves, boots and helmet; the following items have been recommended as components of an Emergency Service Bag that should be carried at all times in your Chaplain’s vehicle or be at the ready near the exit of your home.
- Heavy duty carry all bag
- Emergency service identification card or emblem for car
- Metal notebook/file case with clip
- Writing paper with two extra pens
- 2 sharpened pencils in case pens freeze or malfunction
- Report forms or victim contact recording forms
- Emergency contact list for department personnel
- Flashlight with four extra batteries (LEDs last longer but are not as bright)
- Warm cap with ear covering
- Cap with “Chaplain” or Department on it
- Heavy warm gloves
- Light cotton/wool gloves (for dry warmth)
- Latex surgical gloves (protection for blood borne pathogens)
- Antiseptic gel
- Over shoes/rubber boots
- Pair of socks
- Rain gear coat/jacket
- Bug spray or repellent
- Ministry book/small Bible
- Small personal religious or prayer book
- Small emergency first aid book
- Small first aid kit with band aids etc.
- Street map of towns you might be called to
- Phone list with emergency aid and chaplains numbers
- Snacks bars, raisins, and fluid replacements where appropriate
- Specialty items required by our climate or particular circumstances
(Adapted from the New York State Association Of Fire Chaplains http://www.nysafc.org/)
