No one likes thinking about natural disasters or doomsday prepping, but a little caution goes a long way. Particularly for those who live in areas prone to earthquakes, preparation matters. Not sure what to pack in your earthquake survival kit? We’ve got you covered.
Earthquakes in Southern California
In the past few years, many small earthquakes have rocked Southern California. In 2017, a major earthquake that registered a 7.1 on the Richter scale hit Mexico City. Whether a big one will hit California is not a question of “if” but “when.” The state of California lies on the path of the Cascadia subduction zone, which is one of the longest fault lines and stretches from Vancouver Island to northern California. The fault line still has active tectonic processes going on within it. Southern California, of course, lies on the San Andres fault line, and just recently, scientists have identified a new fault line between LA and San Diego.
If science is anything to go by, we know there is little we can do to prevent this. However, we can learn how to brace ourselves for impact. Let’s explore how to brace for impact and what to pack in your earthquake survival kit.
What to Pack in Your Earthquake Survival Kit
Your earthquake survival kit should include the following categories of items:
- Food.
- Water.
- First aid kit, plus essential medication.
- Waterproof and windproof clothing.
- Strong outdoor shoes.
- Temperature-controlled and lightweight bedding (sleeping bags, blankets, etc.).
- Survival equipment (knives, rope, tarp, fire starter, etc.).
- A flashlight, preferably a self-charging one.
- Radio.
- Spare batteries.
- Supplies for your pet (if applicable).
- Face masks.
- Large trash bags for your makeshift toilet and for waterproofing.
Maintaining Your Pack
For the most part, you can make your pack, and it will stay ready. However, periodically take the time to inventory items and check batteries, expiration dates, etc. Battery-powered lighting is your best choice, as other forms, such as candles and kerosene, will prove unreliable. Food should be shelf-stable for quite some time, and water should be well-sealed in glass containers.
Don’t Forget Documentation!
There are emergencies where you have to leave in a hurry. In this case, you should have a backpack ready with your earthquake survival kit. In addition to the items already mentioned, include your relevant documents, such as identification documentation, family photo albums, and financial documents, in your getaway kit. Stick to dried foods and energy bars for your food because they are easy to carry.
