Top Things to Pack in your Earthquake Survival Kit

If disaster strikes, will you be prepared? If you live in one of the coastal states, it is highly recommended that you either purchase or prepare your own Earthquake Survival Kit. Following the recent aftermath of unpredictable weather in Japan and after-shock felt on the west-coast, it’s no wonder why more and more people are starting to pack their bags.

What to Include in an Earthquake Survival Kit

Putting together an Earthquake Survival Kit can be a difficult task, if you don’t know what to include. Below are is a list of some of the most important items you should have packed in your survival kit.

Water

People often underestimate the essential nature of water. But the fact of the matter is, you need it in order to live. Officials from the American Red Cross recommend storing water in either, glass or plastic bottles, or a milk carton. Keep in mind that a typical active person should drink at least two quarts of water on a daily basis. If you live in a warm or dry climate, you will need double that amount. It’s recommended that you store at least one gallon per person, each day. All together, you should have at least three-days worth of water, to play it safe.

In case of an emergency situation, such as an earthquake, you should also prepare enough materials for your pets. Keep back up water so your furry friends can drink too.

Food

Your earthquake survival kit should also include nonperishable food items, including the items below:

• canned fruits/vegetables
• canned beans/soup
• crackers
• jelly
• granola bars
• trail mix

Also remember to keep an emergency supply of food for anyone who has specific dietary needs. The food in your earthquake survival kit should be restored at least once every year. Once again, don’t forget a few cans of food for Fido, pets should have at least one ounce of food per pound, every day.

Medication

If you’re one of those people who is worried about missing a dose, you probably don’t have to worry about this as it’s likely already prepared! Your earthquake survival kit should have at least, three days worth or medication. Keep in mind that if an emergency situation takes place, it may be difficult or impossible to get a doctor’s prescription, or take a trip to the local pharmacy. Having a small supply of medication, will at least ensure you’re covered for three days. After three days, emergency assistance from the American Red Cross or other agencies should be available.

In addition to any medication, one should always have a First Aid Kit on hand. Since you don’t know the extent of the emergency you may encounter, you should try to pack as many first aid items as possible in your earthquake survival kit. This can include, but is not limited to, the items below.

First Aid Kit

• Bandaids
• cleansing agent or sap
• latex gloves
• sun screen
• gauze pads (4-6 two inch pads and 4-6 four inch pads)
• triangular bandages
• Pain Relievers
• Anti-Diarrhea Medicine
• Antacid
• scissors
• tweezers
• needle
• most towelettes
• alcohol pads
• thermometer
• petroleum jelly

In addition to these essential items, your earthquake survival kit should also include the tools and supplies noted below.

Tools and Supplies

• Paper Plates/Cups
• Plastic Utensils
• AM/FM Radio with Batteries
• Extra Batteries
• Extra Cash
• Wrench (in case you need to turn off gas or water)
• Flash Light
• Sleeping Bag or Blow up Mattress
• Signal Flare
• Paper/Pencil
• Phone Charger (if electricity is available)

Sanitation

• Eco Friendly Toilet paper
• Soap
• Personal Hygiene Supplies/Feminine Supplies
• Plastic Bags/Scooper
• Garbage bags/ties
• Hand Sanitizer

Some people also find it helpful to save a few gallons of water for sanitation purposes. If you have a few gallons saved for drinking purposes, it wouldn’t hurt you to fill up a few more so you can wash your hands or freshen up in case of an emergency.

 Clothing & Bedding
Your earthquake survival kit should also include extra clothing and bedding. If an earthquake takes place, you never know how soon help will arrive. Having at least 4 pairs of underwear, sunglasses, and other clothing will work in your favor. Try to pack sweat pants or other comfortable clothing items, as you don’t know what time of setting you’ll be in. One should also have a pair of shoes that are reliable and won’t fall apart. Extra rain coats and sleeping bags are also must have items.

More Useful Tips

The items listed above are just a few examples of some of the things that should be packed ahead of time to prepare for an emergency. It is also crucial that hat you have a copy of keep certain documents readily available, such as insurance policy information, passports, medical records, and any other legal information.

You should also have your checkbook, debit cards and any other bank account information you will need to get access to money. If you have a credit card, that will be helpful as well.

When storing your important information in your earthquake survival kit, place it inside a freezer bag, or other waterproof container. Along with other documentation, it would be helpful to have important telephone numbers written down.

If you can afford it, you can also purchase a standard cell phone. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, it should strictly be used for emergencies. Keep this cell phone charged and ready to go at all times. You can easily purchase a phone with pre-paid minutes for 20-30 dollars.

Having a list of items that will help you survive is helpful when putting together any earthquake survival kit. Some items highlighted in the lists above include your basic necessitates such as food and water, to sanitary items like toilet paper. Try to have your kit stowed away in a place you will remember. The last thing you want to deal with in an emergency if trying to find a loss kit. In addition to having the kit already assembled, have a plan in place. Talk to your kids and other family members about what to do if a natural disaster takes place. Just like preparing for a fire, your family should have a “meeting spot”, such as your backyard or the tree in your front yard. Whatever measures you take, it is important that every member of the family is prepared. Discussing emergency plans and putting together an earthquake survival kit will come in handy should you ever encounter a natural disaster.