More Thoughts on Being Earthquake Ready

I've looked over the lists on 72hours.org and I still have questions and thoughts. I think that there is no way to be ready for an earthquake since you just have no idea of when one will hit. But here are some more thoughts if one hits while you are sleeping. Do you sleep naked? If so, you may want to throw a set of clothes on the end of your bed and as well as a pair of slip on shoes under your bed (to assist in having to potentially navigate through broken window glass or other sharp objects). I also hang a wind up flashlight/radio combo on one of my bed posts and I have a knotted rope that I can throw out the window to reach the ground three stories below.

We recently added a huge first aid kit to the underside of the bed and nearby there is a phone that can be plugged into the phone line that needs no electricity. And I stocked up on canned beans (you should also have a manual can opener in the house if you want to open any cans without power).

Imagine yourself stuck in your apartment for 24 - 26 - 72 or more hours. Do you have some water? First aid stuff? Food? A radio to hear what is going on? Some vodka? Or any other necessary medication? Some cash (in various denominations)? Pet food (if you have a dog)? And so on. And so far this hasn't taken up much space.

How to Prepare for an Earthquake.

Actually, any disaster that leaves you without communication, electricity and clean water for more that a day will need some preparedness. If you live in any part of the country that is hit with earthquakes, strong storms, flooding and so on, it is recommended that you be prepared to take care of yourself, loved ones and pets for at least 72 hours or until help arrives. Check out the site. They have plenty of great tips, plus lists of what you should have on hand.

I was wondering how much cash one should keep around and many say $200 - $400 is a good amount. You should also keep the money in a place you can remember (duh) - and if possible - have small denominations such as singles and fives. A stack of $20s is fine, but if no one has change, that's what you'll be paying for a bottle of water.

Another thing that came to mind during a lengthy power outage in January, was that even though we had water, coffee beans, a gas stove and a filter to drip the coffee - we had neglected to grind any additional beans the night before. There was enough for just one cup. Luckily, a neighbor had a hand grinder.