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Earthquake Checklist

Earthquakes can happen almost anywhere, so be prepared no matter where you live. You should have enough supplies to last each person in your home at least 72 hours. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle and at work. You can't know where you will be when an earthquake strikes. Using an earthquake checklist is the best way to get prepared for the worst. The first step is to designate an area in your home where your family will gather in a disaster.

  1. Essential Supplies

    • Store essentials within the designated area of your home. Store a gallon of water for each person per day --- enough for three to seven days --- along with a water purification kit in case you need additional water. Add extra water for your pets. Keep a fully stocked first-aid kit with a first-aid book, fire extinguisher and food in this area. You also need food, a can opener, radio, flashlight, extra batteries, blankets, medications and baby supplies. Keep an extra set of car keys in the designated area in case you can get to the car but not your keys when the earthquake is over. Rotate water and food in the storage area by using it before it expires and replacing it with fresh products. Even water expires, so replace it every six months.

    Tools and Safety Supplies

    • For clearing debris, you need gloves, an axe, shovel, broom, knife, screwdrivers, pliers and a hammer. Include an adjustable wrench for turning off gas and plumbing lines, if needed. Keep handy rope, candles and matches, light sticks, flares, extra clothing, paper and pens. Keep a roll of plastic, duct tape and a staple gun nearby in case you need to cover broken windows.

    Other Supplies

    • In addition to the essentials, have sanitation and hygiene supplies in or near your designated area. Even if the area is near a bathroom, plumbing may not be available for several days. Include on your checklist trash bags, trashcans, soap, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes, toilet paper, bleach and feminine hygiene products. If you are able to cook outdoors, include a camping stove or grill with ready propane or other fuel, aluminum foil, paper towels, paper plates and plastic utensils.

    Preparedness

    • Preparing for the worst also means making sure your home is as safe as possible. Have electrical wiring, gas lines and utility connections checked annually for loose connections and leaks. Bolt all appliances to wall or floor studs. All large, heavy objects should be on lower shelves. Secure shelves and wall hangings to the walls. Anchor overhead light fixtures and tall objects. Hold earthquake drills so you and your family members know where to go and what to do in an emergency. Contact your local Red Cross for information on what to do after an earthquake in your area --- for instance, which buildings in your area are designated as shelters following an emergency, emergency radio stations and important phone numbers.

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