Recent news stories have shown just how destructive a major earthquake can be.
A recent 7.1 earthquake in Mexico City has caused serious damage as have its aftershocks, some of which measured as high as 6.0 themselves. Other serious quakes have occurred in Japan, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia as well. Although these events are inherently unpredictable, seismologists do know that certain areas are overdue for a major quake. Specifically, those living on America’s west coast are advised to be prepared!
Although we can’t predict when an earthquake will hit, we can do our best to be prepared ahead of time.
The truth is, the actual earthquake is rarely the part of what makes earthquakes dangerous. Much more serious is the aftermath when the city has been severely affected and help is (or potentially, isn’t) on its way.
With that in mind, here are 15 things everyone should have in their earthquake kit.
1. Water
Of everything on the list, water may be the most important. Because a major quake can do damage to any city’s infrastructure, water may not be available in the days following. Although we can live for a considerable amount of time without food, water is much more precious. Generally speaking, keeping a gallon per day per person in your home is a good start. At least a three day supply is recommended, though more is obviously better.
2. Canned Foods
Similarly, power may also be out after an earthquake so cooking and keeping fresh food may be out of the question. And although water is definitely important, food is also necessary. Fortunately, canned beans and veggies can keep indefinitely and will keep you full in a pinch.
3. Manual Can Opener
Seems obvious given the above but still—it’s worth mentioning explicitly.
4. First-Aid Kit
Though the contents of this may vary, each should include scissors, tweezers, gauze, sterile bandages, cleaning agents, roller tape, non-prescription painkillers and sunscreen.
5. Dust Masks
Depending on how old your building is or even where you are in the aftermath of a quake, the air may not be particularly clean or breathable. For those cases, a dust mask will come in very handy.
6. Flashlight
With no power comes no light, at least during the nighttime. A flashlight could be invaluable in many different circumstances.
7. Portable Radio
Similarly, cell phone reception and internet may not be an option. Still, it’s important to remain as informed as possible while navigating the city or waiting for help. A radio can help with that.
8. Batteries
Needless to say, all electronics rely on batteries for power. You also never know what else they could come in handy for while the power is out.
9. Wrench or Pliers
Though it may not seem as important, using these tools to shut off the flow of gas and water in a collapsed or collapsing home could make a huge difference in your safety after a quake.
10. Clothes
Though it’s always a good idea to have a change of clothes handy, exactly what kind of clothes you should pack may vary depending on where you live. Having a rain jacket, boots and something warm is always helpful.
11. Sleeping Bags
Shelter is sometimes hard to come by as well in the days immediately following a major earthquake. A sleeping bag will be helpful to allow you a comfortable sleep.
12. Energy Drinks and Vitamins
Although they may not be healthy to drink all the time in daily life, energy drinks can be an important source of electrolytes in addition to basic water and food. Similarly, having some vitamins handy can help supplement whatever is lacking in your diet.
13. Signal Flares
Though these are less common to have lying around the house, they can come in handy for alerting local authorities that you need help.
14. Important Documents
Depending on the severity of the earthquake, many of your records and ways of identifying yourself may be lost. In case of rescue or in any other emergent situation, having an extra way to identify yourself could be very valuable.
15. Extra Eyeglasses
Contacts may be difficult to put in after a quake hits and being able to see is pretty important. Best to keep an extra pair of these to be extra prepared.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
