Are You Prepared?

It seems as though every part of the world has been rocking and rolling lately!  Yesterday's quake reminded me that I need to get an emergency disaster kit together for my home and family.  I researched suggestions on what to pack, and here are some helpful items to include.

1. Water

• 1 gallon of water per person, per day.  Be prepared for a 72-hour period.  Two or three gallons of water per person (don't forget pets).

2.  Food

• Ready-to-eat canned juice, fruits, meats, vegetables, milk.  
• Jar of Peanut Butter or non-salted nuts.
• Dried cereals, crackers, granola bars (avoid foods that make you thirsty).
• Baby food/formula or pet food if needed.
• A non-electric can opener.

3.  First Aid Kit and Manual

• Pain relievers, laxatives, sunscreen.

4.  Two flashlights and batteries
5.  Battery-operated radio and batteries
6.  Tools

• A pipe wrench for turning off gas and water valves.
• Matches in a waterproof container.
• A whistle.

7.  Some cash and important documents

• Passports, insurance cards, financial records, copies of ID cards.

8. Clothing and Bedding

• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• Sturdy shoes.
• Spare eyeglasses/sunglasses.
• Warm-clothes (depending on the weather in your area).

9.  Special Needs

• Medications, contact lens solutions, diapers, toilet paper, sanitation and hygiene items.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/earthquakes/archive/ready.dtl
itmattersareyouprepared.org/images/EQSAFETYCHECKLIST.pdf
American Red Cross