25 Essentials for a Massive Earthquake you need in your emergency backpack

 

By now we've all seen the devasting destruction of the Earthquakes in Turkey and the surrounding areas. It's heart breaking to see all that's unfolding and it hits home as I'm writing this blog from California. Recently, we had a mild quake less than a 30 days ago that was no near as catastrophic but it was enough to wake us up out of our sleep wondering if it was going to get stronger. 

I've also lived through many dangerous storms in the Mid-west and even got caught in a Tornadoes that  touched down in Michigan, gave me some knowledge of how to prepare for natural disasters but watching that footage made me realize, I needed to re-examine my emergency backpack as well as a plan of action because this was next level terrifying to me. 

Also, as I was scrolling to watch all the updates on what was happening, I saw a post Governor Newsom was making about the app that downloaded the app #Myshake that provides information on giving you alerts before, during and after an earthquake.  I'm sure wherever you live they have one for your location as well. 

If you are on a budget, most of these items the 99cents store or a general discount. You can also get 10 things on the list to start. The main goal is to discuss it with your family and have a plan in place. 

1. Waterproof Backpack. With being surrounded by water, it's better to be safe. 
2. First Aid Kit with extra supplies and Hand sanitizer. 
3. Protective gear. Mask, protective glasses protective gloves and protective gloves for removing rubble, rocks and glass if necessary. 
4. A whistle. Incase you are stuck inside where others may not be able to hear you. Blowing a whistle may be loud enough to alert someone that you need. Also, it is much better than using all your energy to scream. 
5. Clothing. A change of clothes perhaps something like a warm jogging suit, something that will protect you from the colder nights as well as you may have to be more flexible in case you have to do some running. Sneakers or boots, as well as undergarments, shoes, socks and bras. 
6. Toiletries. Toothpaste, toothbrush, sanitary napkins, diapers, etc.,
7. Portable power bank for charging phone, the heavy duty ones have built in flash lights. 
8. Dry food like Nuts, Chia Seeds, Hemp powder, trail mix. If there is a massive quake, it's better to have items that are light in your backpack and requires no cooking as well as helping you to maintain energy. 
9. Supplements like Spirulina, Moringa, Maca Root, Vitamin or Protein Powder. No doubt this can be a very stress inducing experience, these supplements will help you with energy, minerals and vitamins. 
10. Recyclable water bottle. 
11. Water purifying packets. 
12. All your important paperwork/ identification in a fireproof caring case. Even if the home is compromised maybe it can be found one day with all the items
13. Spare car key
14. A list of important phone number
15. Keep a fire extinguisher, if you live in an apartment most should have them already. 
16. Multi-tool. A multi tool like a double sided wrench on one side and a screwdriver on the other.
17. Map of evacuation routes
18. Battery operated Radio
19. Flashlight and extra batteries
20. LED portable lamp (battered operated)
21. A list of shelters in your area
22. Pop up Tent. Just incase there's no room to sleep if a major disaster happens, you have some kind of shelter.  
23. Rope  or jumping rope. Never know what you'll need it for. 
24. Book or a Journal with a pen. If you have to evacuate, it's helpful to relieve some stress by reading for a couple of hours or writing in a journal. 
25. A Backup phone Charger