Earthquake Preparedness Emergency Kit Supplies

October 19th was the Great Washington Shake Out. The event was created to help people at home and at work prepare for surviving an earthquake.

 Now that you learned the importance of drop, covering and holding during a quake, (click here for more info on what to do during an earthquake), it’s time to get your emergency preparedness kit ready. Use the following tips and supply list to gather and keep the basics on hand for use after the ground stops shaking.
 

 Tips

 Plan on gathering enough emergency supplies to last at least three days.

 Keep everything in one place on an easily reached shelf in the garage or in the pantry.

Make sure everyone in your family knows where the earthquake emergency supplies are located.

 Don’t forget to include extra batteries.
 

Basic Supplies for Home Use

Radio
Store a battery-powered or hand-crank radio tuned to a local news station to find out what resources are available and to get updates about roads and conditions after the quake.

Flashlights
Include one flashlight for each member of the family in case the power goes out.

First aid kit
Buy a ready-made kit, or visit the Red Cross website to create your own kit.

Food
Keep enough canned and other non-perishable foods to cover three days and preferably up to 14 days, for each member of your family. Put aside dog food and treats for your pet. Include formula for infants.

Water
Provide one gallon of water per day for each member of your family to use for drinking and minimal cleaning. Keep at least a three days supply on hand, preferably up to 14 days. Don’t forget to include water for your pets.

Sanitation and hygiene items
Include diapers for infants as well as feminine products. Add personal items, such as soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Medications
Keep a seven-day supply of medications and other necessary medical items on hand.

Fire extinguisher
Make sure everyone knows where the fire extinguishers in your home are located. Ideally, keep an extinguisher on the emergency supply shelf, too. Click here to read our guide on selecting, locating and inspecting fire extinguishers.

Tools
Include a wrench and pliers in case you need to turn off gas valves or other utilities. Include a manual can opener. You may also want to keep a hammer and nails in a convenient place in case you need to make minor repairs to damaged parts of your home.

Shelter supplies
Include plastic sheeting, dust masks and duct tape to create a temporary shelter free from dust and rain if your home is damaged.