Abandon Ship Bag Equipment

Signaling

EPIRB: A 406MHz EPIRB is the most important item in your abandon ship bag. Remember to pack the EPIRB is such a way that it stays dry otherwise it might start transmitting since the newer units have a water activated switch. Check out EPIRBS...

Flares: USCG approved flares meeting SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements are the most reliable and easiest to use. Carry both parachute flares for long range signaling and red hand flares for close in use.

Signal Mirror: This is the one signaling device that you can keep on using. Check out signal mirrors...

Hand Held VHF: Either a waterproof model or stored in a waterproof bag a VHF is useful when other vessels are in sight. Remember it is easier for you to see a ship than it is for them to see you.

Food & Water

Extra Water: Two to three quarts per day per person is suggested. Either carry water packets like what is packed in life rafts (5 year replacement life) or go to the grocery store an get bottled water which must be replaced much more frequently. Check out survival water...

Reverse Osmosis Water Maker: The second most important item you can put in your abandon ship bag. Check out watermakers...

Emergency Rations: Rations are bulky and heavy but the USCG approved types are designed to not increase your thirst. Check out survival rations...

Fishing Kit: If your rafts equipment pack does not include one, fishing can provide a ready source of food. Check out fishing kits...

Medical Supplies

Prescription Medicine: Any medication that is required regularly by you or your crew.

Prescription Glasses: A spare set can make life much more pleasant.

Sun Screen: This is almost never packed in a first aid kit, and do not forget your lips!

Personal Supplies

Large Garbage Bags: These can be used as clothing or storage.

Feminine Hygiene Products: Often overlooked item. Kotex also makes an excellent pressure dressing.

Miscellaneous

Pencil and Paper Check out Rite in the Rain products...

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Cyalume Chemical Lightsticks

Survival Manual Check out survival manuals...

The Bag

Your abandon ship bag should be waterproof and must float. White water rafters have numerous types of waterproof bags that have been proven to work. Storing your supplies in zip lock bags should give you plenty of trapped air to provide flotation, but check its flotation out for yourself.

This list is by no means complete. Size requirements, cost and personal preferences will dictate what you put in your abandon ship bag. Use common sense and you will come up with the proper solution for your situation.