Imagine this: you’re in your living room watching your favorite show, when suddenly, the room starts to shake, objects are falling off shelves, and a deafening rumble fills your ears. An earthquake – one of the most devastating natural disasters – has hit. In this moment, do you know what to do? How to protect yourself and your loved ones? What you would need to survive an aftershock or the possible days without electricity or access to grocery stores?
In a situation like this, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. This is where ‘prepping’ comes in. Prepping is all about equipping yourself with the necessary skills, gear, and planning needed to survive in a disaster situation. This post will serve as a comprehensive prepper’s guide on how to survive an earthquake – detailing specific survival gear that you should have, effective survival techniques, and practical strategies to implement.
Are you ready to be prepared for the unexpected? Do you know what gear could drastically increase your chance of survival in an earthquake?
Section 1: Earthquake Survival Kit Essentials
One of the first steps in prepping for an earthquake, or any disaster situation, is assembling a survival kit. A comprehensive earthquake survival kit should ideally include:
1. Food and Water: A minimum of three days worth of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day.
Product Recommendation: Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Storage Supply (around $120). This store provides a one-person 30-day supply of food, it’s easily stored, and has a shelf-life of up to 25 years.
2. Medical supplies: A well-stocked first-aid kit that includes dressings, disinfectant, painkillers, and necessary prescription medication.
Product Recommendation: Surviveware Small First Aid Kit (around $36). This compact, waterproof first aid kit is robust, easily portable, and contains a variety of bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and medical-grade shears.
3. Tools and Equipment: A multi-tool, flashlight, and portable radio are indispensable.
Product Recommendation: Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool (around $100). This multi-tool offers 18 tools including a knife, pliers, and screwdrivers, plus it’s made of durable stainless steel.
Section 2: Survival Techniques and Strategies
Once you have your survival kit, it’s important to familiarize yourself with certain survival techniques and strategies.
1. ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’: This method is hailed as the most effective way to protect yourself during an earthquake.
2. Safe spots: Identify safe spots in each room such as under sturdy furniture and against inside walls.
3. Practice: Regularly practice your earthquake response such as using your survival gear, identifying safe spots, and the ‘drop, cover, and hold on’ technique.
Section 3: Pre and Post-Earthquake Preparation
It’s important to have a communication plan with your family, know the safe areas in your home, secure heavy furniture, and know how to turn off utilities if necessary.
After the earthquake, expect aftershocks, use your radio for information, inspect your home for any damages and check for any injuries.
Section 4: Debunking Earthquake Myths
One common myth is that standing in a doorway is the safest place during an earthquake, but in modern homes, this is not the case as not all doorways are sturdy.
Another myth is the ‘Triangle of Life’ theory. This suggests that you should seek shelter next to furniture, not under it, which is largely debunked by leading safety experts.
In conclusion, surviving an earthquake is not just about reacting when it happens, but knowing how to prepare beforehand, having the right gear, and understanding the necessary techniques to stay safe. Don’t wait to be caught unprepared. Being a prepper is about thinking ahead and preparing for the worst while hoping for the best. Are you ready?