25 Things To Put In Your Earthquake Go Bag

My earliest memory is the 6.8 Nisqually earthquake which famously cracked the dome of the Washington State Capitol Building. Since then, I've experienced several earthquakes, though none as strong as the Nisqually quake. However, with the West Coast—specifically the Pacific Northwest—due for "the big one" it has been part of my education to know what to do if an earthquake strikes and to be prepared to evacuate. Part of this includes having a "go bag" which includes supplies that you can quickly grab in order to leave as quickly as possible (this becomes even more important if you live in an area at high risk of a tsunami).

Below is a list of some of the things recommended according to the Department of Homeland Security. I have also included a few of my own recommendations and ways to make the pack as lightweight and practical as possible.

For storing your kit, it is recommended to use one or two airtight containers such as plastic bins or bags. It is important to ensure that all adult members can lift the kit or that it is adequately broken up to allow for easier transportation. Many also choose to keep smaller kits in their cars or at their workplace as well.

#1: Water

This is arguably the most important item in your earthquake go bag. Humans can go long periods without food and hygiene, but lack of drinking water can kill within one to two days. The Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one gallon of water per person per day for several days.

The one issue with this is that water is heavy, and for a family, this can easily expand to needing twenty or more gallons in their kit. This exceeds 150 pounds. Therefore, storing water in smaller containers and spreading it out throughout multiple bags may help. Additionally, cutting down on the water used for hygiene can also help reduce the amount of water needed.

While not ideal, having some water sanitation tablets or a small filtering system like a Lifestraw is a lightweight way to make safe drinking water from natural sources. However, it is important to note that these filtration systems are limited and due to tsunamis and potential volcanic activity, not all natural sources of water may be usable, even with these systems. So, having enough water plus backup filtration is ideal.

#2: Non-Perishable Food

Another important part of an earthquake go bag is non-perishable food. Luckily, there are lighter weight options for food. Focusing on high calorie and high protein food is ideal and allows you to carry fewer items overall. Examples of non-perishable food that fits this criteria include nuts (especially almonds and walnuts), protein bars, and peanut butter. Other items that make good additions include dried fruit, granola, canned food (pull top or include a hand can opener), powdered milk, and a few comfort foods like chips or cookies.

Also, make sure to include foods that meet necessary dietary restrictions or needs. Make considerations for baby food, allergies, and health conditions.

#3: First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a no-brainer for a kit such as this one. However, depending on your or your family's ability to administer it, you may consider packing a more extensive one. Also, make sure to include items such as Epi-pens if needed by someone in your family. A basic first aid kit should include band-aids, gauze bandages, compressive wraps/bandages, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen/Tylenol, alcohol wipes, tweezers, and gloves. More advanced kits may include items such as instant ice, heat patches/wraps, emergency blankets, tourniquets, hydrocortisone cream, laxatives, antacids, syringes, and bulb flushing devices.

While it may not be possible to include your regularly used prescription medications, consider keeping them in a spot easy to access or near the kit.

#3: Masks

Post-earthquake dust and environmental irritants can get stirred up. Anti-dust masks or N95 masks can help protect your lungs. These can also come in handy during some first aid procedures or for those with asthma. If you find yourself in a gathering place following the disaster, masks can also help limit the spread of any existing colds or airborne illnesses.

#4: Portable Charger/Charging Cord

Our cellphones are integral to everyday life, but if electricity goes down after an earthquake, they may become a limited resource. Charge and pack a portable charger and a traditional charging cord for when/if the electricity is restored or you make your way where you can charge. If you can maintain a charge, your phone can help assist in communication with first responders and family in other areas.

#5: Battery-Powered Devices

Battery-powered cellphones and radios allow you to always maintain a certain level of connectivity to the outside world. Also, consider packing more simplistic batteried devices like flashlights, fans, and cooking supplies. Don't forget extra batteries too!

#6: Maps

Keep maps of your local area so you can navigate to higher ground. It is best to mark your planned evacuation route, official evacuation routes, public gathering places, a rendezvous place, and anywhere else important for you and your family. You may even go as far to mark the danger zones for tsunamis or areas of high risk during aftershocks.

#7: Warm Clothing

Unlike other natural disasters, earthquakes can happen at any time of year. Keep lightweight blankets and warm clothing (long underwear is a good option) along with ponchos or severe weather gear.

#8: Hand Sanitizer

A quick and easy way to keep your hands clean. In a pinch, it could even be used as a surface skin disinfectant.

#9: Important Documents

Even if there is a low chance that your house or dwelling will be fully destroyed, making sure to have all of your family's important documents (or at least copies of them) not only preserves them if the worst happens but can make it easier to receive aid or travel if needed. Examples of documents to have copies of (digitally or in hard copy) include passports, bank account information, insurance policies (especially for anything damaged or potentially damaged during the event), and basic documents like birth certificates and social security cards.

#10: Pet Supplies

Your pets need room in your emergency kit too! Pets often get left behind in disasters, but if you plan adequately, you can have everything you need so your pets can join you. Pack extra water, pet food, medications they may need, blankets, litter/portable litter box, and anything else your furry family member may need on a daily basis. (You may also want to include their vet records or information in with your documents and make sure your pet is microchipped and that the microchip is updated).

#11: Feminine & Personal Hygiene Items

While hygiene may not be the first thing on your mind in an emergency, certain aspects of hygiene do take priority such as feminine products (pads, tampons, etc.), deodorant, and basic cleanliness. Even if you are not able to shower, these items can help you stay somewhat clean and not feel totally gross in the situation. Items like feminine hygiene needs, deodorant, baby wipes, hair brushes, dry shampoo, and razors may all come in handy and do not take up too much room.

#12: Extra Glasses or Contacts

As an all-the-time glasses wearer, losing my glasses would be absolutely detrimental and could affect my ability to survive and evacuate. If you wear glasses or contacts, keep a backup pair (even an old pair that isn't your exact prescription but isn't too far off is better than nothing). You never know when disasters may strike or what may be damaged which is why this small part of your kit could actually save your life.

#13: Emergency Contacts

The era of memorizing phone numbers is pretty much over. While we may each have a few important numbers memorized, it is unlikely that you will have all of the numbers necessary saved to your memory during a disaster situation. Therefore, in your kit, keep a waterproof copy of emergency contacts. This could range from local government offices to get information to emergency services to family members and friends. These numbers can also help others help you in an extreme situation.

#14: Sturdy Shoes

Evacuation may include walking significant distances over uneven terrain. Having a pair of sturdy shoes for each person in your household can make this easier and less likely for injuries to occur in the process.

#15: Paper Plates, Cups, & Cutlery

Not only can these paper utensils come in surprisingly handy for a variety of needs, but they also allow you to eat comfortably without the need to carry around heavy plates or utensils. They can also be carried relatively easily if disposal of the items is not easy or practical at any given time.

#16: Trash Bags

Trash bags can help make carrying and collecting your family's waste easier if there is not an easy way to dispose of it. However, they can also serve as waterproofing and makeshift backpacks, among other uses.

#17: Basic Tools

Depending on the situation, you may find that wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and other tools may help you. This is especially helpful in a car emergency kit. Also, if you are unable to leave your residence, these tools allow you to turn off utilities that may pose a risk to you while sheltering.

#18: Duct Tape

There's a reason duct tape is known to fix it all! Duct tape can serve countless purposes whether you are sheltering in place or evacuating or traveling, it can help you perform repairs, waterproof, fix small amounts of damage, and can even serve first aid functions.

#19: Sleeping Bags

Sleeping bags provide a large amount of warmth and are designed to be lightweight. Carrying a sleeping bag for each person is generally lighter than blankets (though a few lightweight blankets are also a good idea for other uses).

#20: Emergency Whistle

If you need to signal for aid, an emergency whistle is one way to do this and it can be kept on your person (some come as necklaces or keychains). You may also consider other signaling devices like alarms or flares.

#21: Utility or Pocket Knife

A small, multi-purpose knife can be helpful for preparing food, building shelter, dressing wounds, and countless other potential situations. A kitchen knife is better than nothing, but choosing a more multi-purpose tool will make it more versatile and useful in an emergency.

#22: Pen & Paper

Pen and paper allow you to communicate with others, write down important information, and can even serve as entertainment.

#23: List of Medications & Medical Needs

If you or a family member takes several medications or requires specialized medical care, have this noted—printed medical records are best, but even a handwritten list can suffice—in one place. This can help you find, identify, and communicate medical needs quickly. If possible, also note down addresses and phone numbers of facilities that may be able to provide help in an emergency situation.

#24: Mobility Aids

For those who use mobility aids like wheelchairs, having supplies for or a portable version of these aids can make evacuation easier. You may also consider teaching a neighbor or family member how to assemble these aids and what you will need to get around.

#25: Non-Electronic Entertainment

Entertainment—while may not be a basic need—it is one that can make survival much easier, especially for children. Books, puzzles, activity books, and board games are all good examples of entertainment that you can add to your kit.