Living in California has some major perks. We can go to the beach in the morning and be up in the mountains by the afternoon. We have some of the most beautiful scenery around, and not to mention the stunning homes and communities. However, living in California has one major drawback…earthquakes. Situated on numerous fault lines, California comes in second behind Alaska for most earthquakes in the United States.
While earthquakes aren’t preventable, they are survivable, and one of the best ways to prepare is to create an earthquake kit. While earthquake kits should contain a lot more supplies, here are five household items to have on hand in case of an earthquake.
Water
The U.S. government natural disaster preparation site Ready suggests stocking your kit with one gallon of water per person per day. Kids and nursing moms may need a little more. If you have pets, you don’t want to forget to add them to the count. Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, like milk cartons or glass bottles. Change this water every six months.
Food
Stock your kit with canned and packaged goods that you regularly eat. That way you’ll save yourself a trip to the grocery store and prevent any intestinal distress due to unfamiliar food. Stock up on high energy foods such as peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix; foods that will not increase thirst. And be sure to avoid foods like rice, pasta and dry beans that require a great deal of water to prepare. Be mindful of expiration dates and swap out the food as it starts to go bad…oh and don’t forget the can opener!
First-Aid Kit
You can purchase a quality first-aid kit at any drugstore or grocery store around. But if you want to make your own, be sure to include: bandaids, gauze pads, latex gloves, various roller bandages, scissors, tweezers, antiseptic, thermometer, sunscreen, and non-prescription drugs such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicines, and antacids.
Sanitation Needs
It’s important that everyone stays clean, safe, and healthy during a disaster. Be sure to include these items in your earthquake survival kit: toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, liquid detergent, garbage bags, disinfectant, feminine products, and household chlorine bleach.
Clothing & Bedding
Making sure you are well clothed and are able to get a good night’s sleep are essential in surviving any natural disaster. Be sure to pack the following: sturdy shoes or work boots, rain gear, blankets or sleeping bags, pillows, warm clothing such as sweatshirts/hoodies, and sunglasses just in case.
Cesi Pagano
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