Did you know that April is Earthquake Preparedness Month? Are you prepared?Well, I always think about this very thing right AFTER we have an earthquake (hence this blog post.) So before the next one, what can you do to be ready ?
Well, in addition to choosing a sturdy piece of furniture to get under (instead of standing in a doorway), you can make or buy an
earthquake kit. The kit should include (at minimum) the following items recommended by the
Red Cross:
* Water—one gallon per person, per day (3 day supply for evacuation, 2 week supply for home)
* Food—nonperishable, easy to prepare items (3 day supply for evacuation, 2 week supply for home)
* Flashlight
* Battery powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
* Extra batteries
* First aid kit
* Medications (7 day supply) and medical items
* Multipurpose tool
* Sanitation and personal hygiene items
* Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
* Cell phone with chargers
* Family and emergency contact information
* Extra cash
* Emergency blanket
* Map(s) of the area
And don't forget about your pet! A plan needs to be in place for him as well...where can he go in case of evacuation? Have the information for a shelter outside of your immediate area, as well as pet friendly hotels. Talk to friends who may be able to put you up in an emergency. And there are earthquake
emergency kits for pets too, including food and first aid supplies. Little T (my feline friend) has his own kit, stored in the closet right next to mine.
