Create disaster supply kits

It is important for individuals and families to be ready to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours, but it is recommended to be prepared for 7 days. After a disaster, essential services like electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, telephones, and transportation routes might be unavailable for several days, weeks, or an extended period. Developing a disaster supplies kit is a crucial part of personal preparedness.

Keep the items you will most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to-carry container such as a large covered trash container, camping backpack or duffel bag.

Water
- At least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
Food
- At least enough for 3 to 7 days. Non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices, foods for infants or the elderly, snack foods, non-electric can opener, cooking utensils / fuel, paper plates, plastic utensils
Blankets / Pillows
- Other bedding items
Clothing
- Seasonal, rain gear, sturdy shoes
Medical supplies
- First aid kit, medicines, prescription drugs, extra glasses
Special Items
- For infants and the elderly
Toiletries
- Hygiene items
- Moisture wipes
Flashlight
- Extra batteries
Radio
- Battery-operated and NOAA weather radio
Cash
- Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.
Important documents
- Insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, social security card, other, in a waterproof container
Tools
- Keep a set with you
Pet care items
- Proper identification, immunization records, ample supply of food and water, a carrier or cage, medications, muzzle and leash
Keys
Toys, books and games
Vehicle fuel tanks filled

At home

To be prepared for a disaster, gather food, water, and necessary supplies for at least three days in a disaster supply kit. Store the kit in a specific location and have it readily available in case of a hasty evacuation. It is crucial for all family members to be aware of the kit’s whereabouts. Moreover, it is advisable to also have supplies that can sustain sheltering for a maximum of two weeks.

At work

Ensure that your kit is packaged in a single container, prepared and easily accessible for immediate evacuation from your workplace. It is important to include food and water in the kit. Additionally, ensure that you have comfortable walking shoes readily available at your workplace for possible long distances during an evacuation.

What Critical Supplies should be in an Earthquake Kit?

Following the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, approximately 12,000 residents in the Bay Area were forced to leave their homes. Among those who were able to stay, numerous individuals experienced days without access to water, electricity, and phone service. It is crucial to keep essential supplies readily available in such situations.

Three days’ water supply for each member of your family (at least 1 gallon per person, per day)
Three days’ supply of nonperishable food, plus a can opener
First aid kits for your home and autos
Three days’ supply of food and water for your pets
Flashlights in every room with extra batteries
Power packs for phones
Prescription medications
Whistle
Swiss Army knife
Copies of your personal documents
Extra pair of glasses
Cash, small bills are best

It is important to remember to replace water and food items every six months.

What are the Best Foods to have on hand incase of an Earthquake?

When selecting items for your earthquake survival kit, make sure to choose foods that come in packaging that is easy to open or serve. Additionally, it is essential to include a manual can opener in your kit. Moreover, it is crucial to choose foods that will not cause an increase in thirst.

Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, veggies
Canned juices, milk, soup
Sweetened cereals
Salt, pepper, sugar
Peanut butter, jelly, crackers
Granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit
Cookies, hard candy, instant coffee, tea bags

According to the Ready.gov website of the Department of Homeland Security, refrigerated foods can be consumed without any concerns if the power outage does not exceed four hours. To prevent spoilage, it is advised to minimize the opening of the refrigerator and freezer doors.

What should be in a Frist Aid Kit to prepare for an Earthquake?

By following a step-by-step approach, you can rephrase the text while preserving its meaning: 1. Utilizing your home first aid kit can minimize the chances of infection or the extent of harm caused by an injury. 2. Typically, first aid kits consist of various supplies essential for managing cuts, scrapes, and minor injuries, such as sprains and burns. 3. Enhance the standard first aid kit by expanding its contents and printing a list to ensure you have all the necessary items readily available.

The following items should be included in basic first aid kits.

Adhesive bandages, in all sizes
Butterfly closures, in all sizes
Tape roll
Gauze pad and gauze roll
Scissors
Foil blankets
Examination gloves
Flashlight/glow sticks
Instant cold pack
Hot pack (body warmer)
Antiseptic cream
Aspirin or Acetaminophen
Allergy medication
Tweezer
Burn cream
Alcohol pads
Antiseptic towelettes
Finger splints/tongue depressors
Cotton swabs
Eye wash
List of family member’s medical history, medications, doctors, insurance company, and contact persons should be readily available.

What Tools & Appliances should you have available if an Earthquake strikes?

Having tools on hand that can aid in shutting off water or gas, repairing damaged appliances, and heating water is crucial during times of emergency.

Flashlight with extra batteries in every room
Fire extinguisher
Duct tape
Work gloves
Matches in a waterproof container
Knife, pliers and scissors
Local maps (paper)
Manual can opener
Dust mask
Water purification tablets
Sterno
A water-resistant or waterproof tarp, which may be needed for shelter, or to protect property from the elements or contain debris after an earthquake.

What Communication Supplies would you need in an Earthquake?

During times of disaster, power sources are typically one of the initial casualties, and their restoration can take several weeks. To be prepared, ensure that each room in your house has a supply of glow sticks and basic flashlights that are convenient to carry and store. Additionally, remember to pack extra batteries for the flashlights.

When the power goes out, radio waves could potentially become your sole means of communication with the external world. It is vital to possess a battery-powered AM-FM radio during emergencies; however, numerous models nowadays incorporate solar panels and hand cranks to recharge their batteries.

Cellphones and tablets serve as valuable tools for survival since they allow you to access and utilize various helpful information. However, when their power depletes, these devices become worthless. To extend the lifespan of your devices until you locate a charging spot, power packs can supply multiple charges.