Home earthquake Emergency Kit

The following handout was given out at the stake women's conference.  I

thought this information was very helpful for other emergencies as well

as for earthquakes. 

1.            ROLLS OF CLEAR PLASTIC.  Between 4-10.  It is a given after an

earthquake event that few if any windows will survive in your home.  You

can plug these holes with plywood (if you have some) but now the home is

plunged into the total blackness of night even during the day.  Plastic

is easier to put up, lets light in while still blocking the wind and

cold, and very cheap.

2.            A STAPLE GUN to put the plastic up fast and easy.  After an emergency,

this must be simple and they must be easy.  The human mind is overwhelmed

by the event and this is not an easy time.  Keep it simple.

3.            A FLASHLIGHT.  Another given is that the lights will be out.  You will

need to find family members in the home and check for damage.  The light

must be a waterproof type.  If there has been a gas leak in the smallest

amount, a regular light will detonate the gas.  Very bad news.

4.            A CROWBAR AND A HATCHET.  Some doors may not want to open after the

movement of the house.  If a loved one is on the other side, this can be

a time of stress and panic.  These simple tools can bring resolution and

an end to the event very quickly. 

5.            GLOVES.  Lots of broken glass and wood mean cuts and injury.  This is

not the time for injury. 

6.            DUCT TAPE to make repairs to simple items of importance.

Keep these tools and supplies in a single place so that they can be

useful.  If you must look for them, time will be lost.  In many cases,

time of only a few minutes means the difference of life or death.