Whether you've recently experienced an emergency of some kind or want to establish some peace of mind in case disaster strikes, a comprehensive disaster plan and a well-thought-out emergency preparedness kit can go a long way.

A go bag doesn't necessarily have to be a backpack or sack, as the goal is simply to organize all of your most critical supplies in one area — that way you're able to evacuate quickly in the event of an emergency.

The destructive fires in Los Angeles County have shone a spotlight on the West's vulnerability to natural disasters and the need for emergency preparedness as wildfire seasons become longer and more intense.

Emergency preparedness is one of those things that can be easy to put off for another day. But given the wildfires raging throughout Los Angeles County in California, the importance of being ready to go at a moment’s notice in the event of a natural disaster or similar catastrophic event has never been clearer.