Earthquakes can strike without warning and can cause a great deal of destruction. Having an earthquake kits is essential for surviving an earthquake, as well as helping you to cope in the aftermath of one. Packing everything you need ahead of time will help ensure that you are prepared should an earthquake strike. Here’s what you need to have in your earthquake kit.
Food and Water
One of the most important supplies you need in your earthquake kit is food and water. Make sure to include non-perishable food items that require no cooking, like canned food and granola bars. You’ll want to include enough food and water for each person in your family for at least three days—five days is optimal. Additionally, make sure to store extra water in case you are unable to access potable drinking water during the emergency period.
First Aid Supplies
In addition to food and water, it’s important that your earthquake kit contains all the necessary first aid supplies. This includes bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes or spray, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, tweezers, scissors, cotton swabs, thermometer, splinting material, adhesive tape and a first aid handbook. Make sure these supplies are stored properly so they last until needed; keep them away from direct sunlight or excessive heat or cold temperatures.
It’s also a good idea to have a whistle or radio in your kit, so you can alert others of your location if needed. Additionally, flashlights and extra batteries are essential for powering any communication devices. Finally, don’t forget some cash – both paper money and coins. This will be helpful in case ATMs and credit cards don’t work after the earthquake. Make sure all of these items are stored in an accessible, waterproof container so you can easily grab it when an emergency strikes. By having an earthquake kit prepared beforehand, you will be better prepared to survive any disaster that comes your way.
Light Sources and Communication Devices
It’s also important that your earthquake kit includes light sources such as flashlights and candles, along with matches so that you can light the candles when electricity is out due to the quake. A battery-powered radio will also be useful for listening to updates on safety issues after the quake strikes. Additionally, a cell phone should be included in your kit; make sure it is fully charged before storing it away so that it will work after an earthquake hits.
An earthquake can hit at any time without warning – which is why having an emergency plan and an earthquake kit packed with essential supplies is absolutely necessary if you want to be prepared when disaster strikes. Your kit should contain enough non-perishable food items and water for each person in your family for at least three days; don’t forget medical supplies such as bandages, gauze pads and antiseptic wipes or spray; include light sources like flashlights and candles; pack a battery-powered radio; make sure there’s a fully charged cellphone in there too!
