Earthquake Kit Checklist

During an earthquake, the earth's crust moves around because of natural chemical occurrences within the earth. This movement itself in not often the not the cause of death and causalities, it is rather the buildings and other man-made features that are destroyed and damaged that cause the causalities. Taking precautionary measures will help in making it easier when the earthquake is over. Food, medicine, clothing and a radio are the main items that can help keep people safe following an earthquake.

First Aid and Medicine

• A first aid kit is very beneficial during times of crisis, since it might take more than 10 days before hospitals and clinics are opened again. A first aid kit should include bandages, alcohol wipes, medical equipment and medications. This kit will provide immediate medical assistance and can keep a person safe from further infection and harm. Having a manual regarding safety precautions and medications can help to diagnose and treat the illness or infection, when no doctor is around.

Textile Articles

• Following an earthquake, housing might be diminished and families might be required to sleep outside or in temporary earthquake shelters. Keeping the climate and weather in mind, it is best to have extra articles of clothing, sleeping bags and tents during this time. Every member of the household should have a complete set of clothing and shoes and extra jackets and sweaters in case of a storm hits or the weather gets cold.

Electrical Equipment

• Items that fall under electrical equipment include flashlights, radios and televisions. During an earthquake, electricity will most likely be cut off. As a precautionary measures, its best to keep portable battery-operated radios, televisions and flashlights. Home phones and public phones will also be out as well. Cellphone towers might not be able to receive signals following earthquakes. Make sure to have enough batteries as well.

Important documents and Cards

• Birth, marriage and property certificates should be kept in a waterproof container and placed in an easily accessible area. Credit cards and debit cards should be taken as well, but since ATM, machines might not be working, extra cash should be on hand following an earthquake.

Food

• Following an earthquake, grocery stores are most likely closed and electricity would be out. Electrical cooking appliances might not work. Keeping this in mind, as a safety precaution, having a nonperishable foods supply can provide nourishment after an earthquake. Soups, stocks, canned fruit and meats all can be easily stocked, have a long shelf life and do not need to be refrigerated. Water supply is important when hydro and electricity are out. The amount of water required per person varies among age, health and physical fitness but ideally, one gallon for one person per day should be stored. When storing food for earthquakes, avoid food that can indirectly cause more usage of water. Examples of such food include salty snacks, nuts and crackers. Specific foods for infants and seniors or people suffering illness (such as diabetes) should also be taken into account.