Necessary Supplies for Your Earthquake Emergency Kit

Earthquakes can happen with little to no warning, so it’s important to be prepared. An earthquake kit is a great way to ensure that you and your family are ready in the event of an emergency. In this article, we’ll go into detail about what items should be included in your earthquake kits and how to create a plan for when the ground starts shaking. 

What Should Be Included in Your Earthquake Kit? 

Your earthquake kit should include items that will help keep you safe during the quake and help you survive afterwards if necessary. The most important item is bottled water—you should have at least one gallon per person per day—and non-perishable food items such as canned goods and energy bars. You should also include a first aid kit, a radio with extra batteries, a flashlight, and matches or lighters. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand in case power outages prevent you from using ATMs or credit cards. 

Creating Your Plan of Action 

Having an earthquake preparedness plan is just as important as having an earthquake kit. Start by identifying potential hazards in your home such as heavy furniture or tall bookcases that could fall over during an earthquake. Make sure everyone knows where the safest places are located; usually these are door frames or areas near interior walls away from windows and other potential hazards. Everyone should have their own personal safety plan and know exactly what they need to do when they feel the ground start shaking. 

The next step is to practice your plan regularly so that everyone knows how to react quickly and calmly during an actual earthquake. It might seem silly but practicing can make all the difference in staying safe during an emergency situation. Finally, establish communication methods for after the quake has passed; texting is usually the best option since cell phone towers may be down but text messages can still go through even if there is no reception.  

Having an earthquake kit and creating a plan of action are essential things every family should do before disaster strikes. Make sure each family member knows what items need to be included in the kit, where the safest places are located within your home, and how each person needs to react when they feel the ground start shaking due to an earthquake. With preparation comes peace of mind—so don’t wait until it’s too late! Start preparing today!