Earthquake Kits and Emergency Items You Should Keep On Hand

by DoItYourself Staff

Being prepared with an up-to-date earthquake kit will help you survive an earthquake with minimal disruption. After the shaking subsides it may still be hours or days before you have running water, electricity and heat, and if your house is badly damaged, you may even have to move out. Having basic necessities on hand will help you cope with a whole range of inconveniences and even injuries.

Earthquake Kit Items

Water Supply

Figure one gallon per person per day for three days. Monitor the expiration date on your water supply and if you haven't used it by the time it expires, donate to your local shelter or food bank and replace it with a fresh supply.

Special dietary needs
Pet supplies—food, water, medication, leashes or a carrier
Portable flashlight and radio, as well as spare batteries
Baby supplies—bottled baby food, diapers, etc.
A wrench for turning off your gas
Blankets or sleeping bags
Extra pair of eye glasses
Cash and credit cards
Essential medicines
First Aid Kit—adhesive bandages, antibiotic cream

You may also decide to include the following items for your comfort and convenience:

Toiletries—travel-sized bottles of shampoo and toothpaste along with toothbrushes
Plastic kitchen utensils
A tent
Toilet paper and paper towels
Camp stove and matches. Be sure to check for any gas leaks before using fire of any kind

When choosing a container to use for storing your emergency supplies, keep in mind that it should be easily portable. For instance, if it is heavy, which many are, chose a large duffle bag that has roller wheels or perhaps a new trashcan that has roller wheels which can easily be transported with you.

For more information regarding earthquake preparedness visit the California Emergency Management Agency (OES) at www.oes.ca.gov. You can also visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at www.fema.gov for more tips on how to prepare for various natural disasters including earthquakes.