Earthquake Kits

Opinions vary as to what should be included in earthquake preparation kits, but here are the basics for two kits: FOR THE HOME: Flashlight (extra batteries) Radio (extra batteries) First-aid kit and handbook Water (two quarts per person) Purification tablets or liquid chlorine bleach to disinfect water Foods: canned, powdered, freeze-dried and dehydrated foods--enough to last one week Gloves Plastic trash bags Tissues Pocketknife Manually operated can opener Mini-barbecue grill or hibachi Matches, candle and Sterno Fire extinguishers Screwdriver, crowbar Wrench: To turn off gas and water Sleeping bag and/or blankets Change of clothes Pencil and paper Personal items: toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, towel, razor, any necessary prescriptions, extra pair of eyeglasses, antiseptic cream, adhesive tape, alcohol, aspirin, bandages, gauze FOR THE CAR: First-aid kit (with bandages, gauze, tape and handbook) Water (two quarts) Personal items: toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, towel, razor, prescriptions, antiseptic cream, aspirin, bandages, gauze Pocketknife Leather gloves Bottle opener Matches Flashlight (extra batteries) Pocket radio (extra batteries) Blanket Dehydrated or canned food/snacks Jumper cables Screwdriver, crowbar Plastic trash bags Pencil/paper Sterno canned heat SOURCE: American Red Cross