24 Hours Earthquake Kit
Most of us realize how
important it is to have a disaster kit at home. But it's equally important to
have a smaller kit in your car. Here's a list of items for a 24-hour disaster
kit that will fit in an easy-to-carry box or bag. You should have a kit like
this, plus no less than a half-full tank of gas.
1.
Food
and water. Include
non-perishable, high-energy food. Water should be in plastic containers. Think
about who could be with you when an earthquake happens and pack enough for
everyone to last 24 hours. And don't forget the special needs of infants and
persons with restricted diets. Replace the food and water in your kit twice a
year.
2.
Sanitation
supplies. Include an
adequate supply of toilet paper and necessary personal hygiene products. Also
include some paper towels and a small bottle of liquid soap or anti-bacterial
lotion. Plastic storage and garbage bags that zip or tie closed are useful to
collect waste. These bags can serve other purposes, too--for example, a garbage
bag can be made into a rain poncho.
3.
Flashlight
with batteries. Having
fresh batteries is important. Remember to check them twice a year.
4.
Sturdy
clothing. You could
be forced to climb over debris after an earthquake, so pack a pair of work
gloves. You should also have strong shoes with good soles. Be sure to put a
pair in your kit if you often drive wearing high-heels, lightweight dress shoes
or sandals.
5.
First-aid
supplies. At a
minimum, include latex or plastic gloves, antiseptic and an assortment of
adhesive bandages. A small package of your favorite over-the-counter pain
relief medicine may come in handy, too. If someone needs prescription medicine,
be sure to pack enough for at least 24 hours.
6.
Blanket. Most sporting goods stores stock
inexpensive, insulated emergency blankets that fold to be smaller than your
hand.
7.
Emergency
addresses and phone numbers. List the addresses and phone numbers of several
neighbors and of the people you designated as emergency contacts on your
child's school forms. With your family, decide on a person living outside the
Bay Area to be an emergency contact and put that person on the list. And don't
forget the phone number of your insurance agent.
8.
Pen
and paper. It may be
necessary to write down information or to leave written messages. You might
also include a bright marker so your notes will attract attention.
9.
Money. Pack at least $50 in cash. Don't
include extra bank or credit cards. You may not be able to use them if the
electricity is off. Plus, you run the risk of having them stolen if the kit is
in your car.
10.
Stress-busters. Include things that will help
relieve tension and pass the time. Some ideas: a pack of gum; hard candy or
lollipops; a deck of cards; small travel games for the kids.
Also See Article on KSL about being Prepared :
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?sid=21819362&nid=151&title=fires-a-reminder-to-be-financially-prepared-in-case-of-emergency
Also See Article on KSL about being Prepared :
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?sid=21819362&nid=151&title=fires-a-reminder-to-be-financially-prepared-in-case-of-emergency
