First the opportunity came up very fast, saw the post Tuesday was on a plane Wednesday. So read the RFS documents carefully, have your documents ready to go; resume, certifications, picture (if required), gear, travel information (TSA Pre Check number), insurance, etc… Don’t be trying to figure this out the day of the post or call.

We’re working 2 person posts and sharing a room. One vehicle shared between the site teams. Once you’re at the hotel you’re on your own if you want to go anywhere.

Relieve your post on time, bath, don’t keep your partner awake with BS, keep your shit squared away, back them up, etc… In short be a professional.

Bring enough clothes to sustain yourself for the duration of the deployment as laundry service may not be available. We’re wearing 5.11’s and company polos. Bring a hat, I recommend two pair of footwear, and a rain jacket minimum and any other weather appropriate gear. A pair of work gloves is a good idea too.

Cell phone, have cables, wall & vehicle adapters, a charger for remote sites where there is no power. I recommend a small pocket size one and in the future I would bring my PowerAll with attachments in my go bag.
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Pro-Tip: Download the area into offline maps in Google Maps before you deploy:
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps-transit-food/id585027354
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&hl=en_US

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Two flashlights one decent tactical light, a smaller penlight type for checking stuff out and a small red lens for in the room at night so you don’t wake up your roommate turning on lights or million lumen tactical light. A pocket note pad and pen.

I have been wearing my IPAK on my belt but have my IFAK and pill pack (if you don’t know what either are FITFO) in my go bag. I also have a CPR mask on me.

Tools, I have a Leatherman, Spyderco Endura, Swiss Army Classic, water bottle, travel mug, and titanium spork.

Also in my go bags is a mini hygiene kit, shamag, sunscreen, bug spray, extra glasses, 4 bottles of water, power bars, change of under clothes, and other sustainment items. Be prepared to take care of yourself.
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Disaster Deployment Gear Considerations Amazon List:
http://a.co/6qk665t 

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Also bring some cash with you. Minimum of $100.00. If you smoke or dip make sure you have yourself covered for at least a week or so. Cash is king as ATM’s May not be working.

That’s about all for now as I just got off shift and am falling asleep. Remember be professional and able to take care of yourself.”