Why you need a kit ready in advance
After a major earthquake, essential services like water, power, gas, and communications can be cut for days, and roads may be impassable. Emergency responders will be overwhelmed, so you may need to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. A prepared kit means you are not scrambling for supplies in the chaos immediately after a quake.
Experts recommend assembling the kit now, storing it where you can grab it quickly, and telling everyone in the household where it is. Consider a smaller version for your car and workplace too, since a quake may strike when you are away from home.
Water and food
Water is the top priority. Store at least four liters per person per day, enough for both drinking and basic hygiene, with a minimum of a three-day supply and ideally two weeks. Keep it in sealed, food-grade containers and rotate it periodically so it stays fresh.
For food, choose non-perishable items that need no cooking or refrigeration, such as canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts, along with a manual can opener. Include a three-day supply at minimum, remember any special dietary or infant needs, and check expiration dates a couple of times a year.
First aid, tools, and light
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential: bandages, gauze, antiseptic, adhesive tape, scissors, gloves, pain relievers, and at least a week's supply of any prescription medications. Add a first aid manual so anyone can use it in an emergency.
Pack a flashlight and a battery- or hand-crank radio with spare batteries, a whistle to signal for help, a multi-tool or wrench to shut off utilities, dust masks, work gloves, sturdy shoes, and plastic sheeting with duct tape. A portable power bank for phones and a fire extinguisher are also valuable additions.
Documents, comfort, and maintenance
Keep copies of important documents such as IDs, insurance policies, and medical information in a waterproof bag, along with some cash in small bills since card systems may be down. Store emergency contact numbers on paper, not only in your phone.
Round out the kit with hygiene supplies, sanitation bags, a change of clothes, blankets, and items for children, elderly members, or pets. Finally, treat the kit as a living thing: review it at least twice a year, replace expired food, water, and medicine, and update it as your family's needs change.