If you live in an area that is at high risk for earthquakes, you should prepare a well-equipped earthquake safety kit. Earthquakes can devastate an area in less than 5 minutes. Emergency teams will be overloaded with calls and demands for help, so it may be up to 72 hours before you get outside assistance. An earthquake safety kit that is stocked with necessities will be necessary to insure that you and your family can survive until help arrives. The following items should be included in your kit.
Fresh Water
Water lines may be damaged following an earthquake. It is imperative that you have a supply of fresh water on hand for drinking. You may have to go 2-3 days before water supplies can be restored. Allow 3 gallons of water for each family member.
First Aid Kit
Medical supplies such as bandages, tape, splints, antibiotic ointments, scissors, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and analgesics should be included in your kit. If a family member takes a prescribed medication, a few tablets should be placed in the kit. Hand sanitizer should be included, as well as antibacterial soap. You will also need feminine hygiene products and toilet paper.
Clothing and Blankets
Two complete changes of clothing should be included for each family member. Raingear and warm jackets should be packed into the kit. Durable work gloves and boots will come in handy. Blankets and sleeping bags are also a good idea.
Tools and Other Essentials
A hammer, nails, screwdriver, wrench, utility knife, duct tape and a plastic tub or bucket for waste and sanitation should be included in your kit. You should also have a box of trash bags, and a bottle of bleach to be used for purifying water and sanitizing.
Food
The food you choose should be ready to eat or easily prepared without electricity of water. You should pack a manual can opener, some pots and pans, and disposable plates, cups and utensils .Make sure you check the shelf life on the foods you are packing.
Make a List
Make a list of medications, allergies, and emergency contact numbers. Include copies of your health insurance cards and identification cards.
Odds and Ends
You will need toothbrushes and toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items such as deodorant and shampoo. A radio, batteries, flashlight, candles, and walkie talkies will come in handy. Don?t forget an extra pair of eyeglasses and a stash of emergency cash. Add a whistle to the kit that you can use to signal an emergency, or to lead first responders to your location. Large, heavy duty trash bags are essential for collecting trash and for sanitation purposes .Be prepared for the next disaster with an emergency kit that contains everything your family needs to get by for a few days. You?ll be glad you did!
