Module 2: Family Preparedness

 

Survival Protocol Manual

Module 2: Family Preparedness (Go-Bags, Evacuation Plans, Survival Skills)

2.1 Introduction

In times of crisis—whether war, natural disaster, or civil unrest—the safety of your family depends on advance preparation. Many families in Ukraine, Syria, and even in World War II Europe survived not because they were stronger, but because they were ready.
The Bible also teaches foresight:

• “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” (Proverbs 22:3, KJV)
  
  

This module will teach families how to prepare Go-Bags, evacuation plans, and survival skills that will minimize panic and maximize safety.

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2.2 The Family Go-Bag (Emergency Kit)

Every family member should have a Go-Bag (Bug-out Bag) packed and ready. It should be light enough to carry, but complete enough for 72 hours of survival.

A. Basic Contents of a Go-Bag

1. Water & Hydration
   
   

• 2–3 liters of bottled water (per person)
  
  

• Portable water filter (LifeStraw or equivalent)
  
  

• Water purification tablets
  
  

2. Food
   
   

• Ready-to-eat meals (MREs, canned goods, energy bars)
  
  

• Dried fruits, nuts, biscuits
  
  

• Small can opener & utensils
  
  

3. Clothing
   
   

• 2–3 sets of change clothes (preferably quick-dry)
  
  

• Jacket / raincoat
  
  

• Sturdy shoes or boots
  
  

• Extra socks & underwear
  
  

4. Shelter & Warmth
   
   

• Lightweight tent or tarp
  
  

• Emergency blankets
  
  

• Sleeping bag or mat
  
  

5. Medical Supplies
   
   

• First Aid Kit (bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain relievers)
  
  

• Prescription medicines (1-week supply minimum)
  
  

• Face masks & sanitizer
  
  

• Mosquito repellent
  
  

6. Tools & Essentials
   
   

• Flashlight (solar or battery-powered)
  
  

• Extra batteries / power bank
  
  

• Multipurpose knife / Swiss army tool
  
  

• Lighter, matches in waterproof case, firestarter
  
  

• Duct tape & rope
  
  

7. Identification & Documents
   
   

• Photocopy of IDs (laminated)
  
  

• Family contact list
  
  

• Small notebook & pen
  
  

• Some cash (in small bills, not just digital)
  
  

8. Faith & Encouragement
   
   

• Pocket Bible or New Testament
  
  

• Small hymnal / prayer guide
  
  

• Encouraging scripture cards
  
  

B. Packing Tips

• Use a durable backpack (water-resistant).
  
  

• Label each bag with the family member’s name.
  
  

• Store bags near the exit for quick access.
  
  

• Check and update contents every 3–6 months.
  
  

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2.3 Family Evacuation Plans

When a crisis hits, confusion kills. Every family must have a clear, practiced evacuation plan.

A. Planning Safe Exits

1. Identify two escape routes from your home (main road & back road).
   
   

2. Know the nearest evacuation centers (church, school, government shelter).
   
   

3. Have two rendezvous points:
   
   

• Near: a safe spot within 1 km of home.
  
  

• Far: a spot outside your city/town (relative, friend, or church partner).
  
  

B. Communication Strategy

• Agree on a family code word for emergencies (e.g., “Jericho”).
  
  

• Assign one communication coordinator (eldest child or spouse) to check on everyone.
  
  

• Have a contact card for each member with phone numbers and addresses.
  
  

• Use whistles or loud signals if phone lines are down.
  
  

C. Transportation

• Keep vehicle at least half-full tank at all times.
  
  

• Prepare bicycles as backup transportation.
  
  

• For non-motorized transport: sturdy shoes are critical.
  
  

D. Practice Drills

• Do family evacuation drills once every 2 months.
  
  

• Practice leaving the house in under 5 minutes with Go-Bags.
  
  

• Walk the evacuation routes to know time & obstacles.
  
  

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2.4 Basic Survival Skills Every Family Member Must Learn

1. Fire-making
   
   

• Use matches, lighters, or firestarters.
  
  

• Practice building small cooking fires.
  
  

2. Water purification
   
   

• Boiling water for 5–10 minutes.
  
  

• Using filters or tablets.
  
  

3. First Aid
   
   

• Stopping bleeding (apply pressure, bandage).
  
  

• CPR basics.
  
  

• Treating burns & wounds.
  
  

4. Food preparation
   
   

• Cooking rice or noodles with minimal tools.
  
  

• Safe handling of canned food.
  
  

5. Navigation
   
   

• Reading a basic map & using landmarks.
  
  

• Learning the directions using the sun.
  
  

6. Security Awareness
   
   

• Moving quietly at night.
  
  

• Keeping lights low to avoid detection.
  
  

• Staying together as a group.
  
  

7. Faith & Encouragement
   
   

• Parents should teach children short memory verses for courage.
  Example: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
  
  

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2.5 Special Considerations

• Children: pack smaller Go-Bags (snacks, small toys, comfort item).
  
  

• Elderly / Disabled: prepare mobility aids, extra medicine, medical ID bracelet.
  
  

• Infants: baby formula, diapers, wet wipes, small blanket.
  
  

• Pets: small food supply, leash, vaccination records.
  
  

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2.6 Final Encouragement

Preparedness is not about living in fear but about living wisely. Jesus taught the parable of the Wise Virgins who prepared their oil for the coming bridegroom (Matthew 25:1–13). In the same way, families and churches must prepare spiritually, emotionally, and practically.

“Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:36, KJV)

✅ With Go-Bags ready, evacuation plans practiced, and survival skills learned, families can survive the first waves of crisis and support others in their church and community.