Earthquakes can be devastating, and if you live in an area that’s earthquake prone, it’s important to be prepared. Building an emergency earthquake kits ensures that you have the essential items necessary to survive a natural disaster. Here’s what you need to know about building your own emergency earthquake kit. 

Essential Items for Your Kit 

Your emergency earthquake kit should include items for both short-term survival and long-term sustenance. Short-term survival items include a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, whistle (to signal for help), cash or coins (for pay phones), pocket knife, dust mask or bandana (to cover your mouth and nose from ash or debris), plastic sheeting and duct tape (for sheltering purposes), nonperishable food items such as energy bars or trail mix, water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), medications and copies of important documents such as IDs and insurance cards.  

Long-term sustenance should also be included in your emergency earthquake kit. This could include items like waterproof matches or lighters; candles; can opener; local maps; hand crank radio; fire extinguisher; tools for sanitation such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer; sanitation supplies such as bleach wipes and garbage bags; pet supplies if applicable; extra clothing layers; sleeping bags/blankets/pillows; hygiene products like toothbrush/toothpaste/soap/shampoo; playing cards/games; books with local knowledge (such as edible plants); manual can opener if necessary.         

Organizing Your Kit 

Once you have gathered the essential items for your emergency earthquake kit, it’s important to organize them properly so that they are easily accessible when needed. It may be helpful to use clear plastic containers with airtight lids to store everything securely. Make sure all containers are clearly labeled with details on the contents inside! Place everything in a convenient location where it will be easy to access during an emergency situation—like near the entrance of your home or somewhere close by that is easy to get to quickly.                            

Checklist 

Prioritize safety by creating a checklist of essential items that you need so that you don’t forget anything when building your emergency earthquake kit! Your checklist should include all of the basic necessities mentioned above—short term survival basics like water bottles and flashlights as well as long term supplies like fire extinguishers and extra layers of clothing—as well as any personal items that are specific to your family’s needs. Consider adding a few comfort items such as books or board games too! Once you have created a comprehensive checklist, consider making it available online so friends and family can also benefit from having an organized list of vital supplies handy in case of an emergency.

Building an emergency earthquake kit is vital if you live in an area prone to earthquakes. You must make sure that all essential short-term and long-term survival needs are met by including the right combination of supplies in your kit—from food and water rations to extra layers of clothing and hygiene products. Additionally, organizing these supplies into clearly labeled containers will ensure easy access during times of distress.