Earthquake Preparedness

Earthquake preparedness is for everyone because they can happen anywhere from Western New York to Southern California. Preparing for an earthquake can be a little tricky because, unlike blizzards, floods, or tornadoes, you never know when, or where one might strike. According to USGS.com “It is estimated that there are 500,000 detectable earthquakes in the world each year” making earthquake survival important to everyone – everywhere.

Like preparing for other emergencies, earthquake preparedness begins with a family plan. Because every family has different needs, every family’s earthquake survival plan will depend on their size, climate, and location. In the end, your family’s input will handcraft an earthquake emergency kit that they can have at their fingertips at a moment’s notice.

Typically, the contents of an earthquake survival kit are designed to help your family withstand the harshest of circumstances for three to five days and will be broken into three categories: 1) personal protection and first aid supplies, 2) survival supplies and provisions, and 3) rescue supplies and equipment. Although your family’s needs might vary, this is what a typical earthquake survival kit would contain.

  • 3-to-5 day water supply for each person (at least ½ gallon per person / per day)
  • 3-to-5 days of nonperishable food (Granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit etc. .)
  • First aid kits
    • Adhesive bandages
    • Butterfly closures
    • Duct tape, electrical tape, and medical tape
    • Gauze
    • Foil blankets
    • Non-latex gloves
    • Instant cold / hot packs
    • Antiseptic cream
    • Aspirin and Tylenol
    • Tweezers
    • Sunscreen
    • Alcohol pads
    • Baby wipes
    • Tongue depressors
    • Cotton swabs
  • LED Flashlights with extra batteries
  • Rechargeable power cells
  • A disposable lighter and flares
  • 3-to-5 days of prescription medications
  • A whistle or an aerosol horn
  • A Swiss army knife or a Leatherman’s multi-tool
  • Copies of your personal documents
  • $500 in cash (preferably smaller demonetization bills)
  • A leather belt for your waist.
  • A sheathed knife, wrench, pliers and scissors for your belt
  • AM-FM radio (one that operates without electricity)
  • Sterno
  • Water purification filters or tablets

Preparing For an Earthquake

Remember, your earthquake preparedness plan needs to go far beyond your survival kit. Preparing for an earthquake, should start with paperwork. Most home insurance policies and rental insurance doesn’t include earthquake coverage. Be sure you’re covered with a separate policy that will cover property damage from shaking. Other paperwork you’ll need to have on hand is a list of medical history, doctors, medications, insurance company information, police / fire information, and personal contact information. Preparing for an earthquake may take some time, so the time to start is now!