Earthquakes are unique challenges for schools. Unlike other natural or man-made disasters, earthquakes come without warning and leave little to no time for preparation. Schools cannot be closed in advance or evacuated. However, with the proper training and planning in advance, everyone in your school community can be prepared to react appropriately during and after an earthquake, with the necessary supplies on hand.
After most natural disasters, essentials like water, electricity, and means of communication are cut off. Preparedness for a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, is key. In this article, we will discuss what items you need in your earthquake emergency kit to help your classroom recover quickly.
What is an Earthquake Kit?
Earthquake kits include essentials for survival like food, water, shelter, and first aid, as well as useful supplies such as multi-tools and flashlights.
What to Include in an Earthquake Kit
1. Water
Water is a basic need for survival, making it one of the essential elements in an earthquake kit. The kit will include enough purified water to meet the needs of a family or, in the case of a school emergency, a classroom. Look for kits that offer small, individual containers for easier rationing and less risk of water waste.
2. First Aid Kit
Your first aid kit can help reduce the risk of infection or the severity of an injury. First aid kits typically include a variety of supplies that will help treat cuts, scrapes, and minor injuries, including sprains and burns. Build on the basic first aid kit and print out a copy of the list to keep with first aid items.
Basic first aid kits should include the following items:
- Adhesive bandages, in all sizes
- Butterfly closures, in all sizes
- Tape roll
- Gauze pad and gauze roll
- Scissors
- Foil blankets
- Examination gloves
- Flashlight/glow sticks
- Instant cold pack
- Hot pack (body warmer)
- Antiseptic cream
- Aspirin or Acetaminophen
- Allergy medication
- Tweezer
- Burn cream
- Alcohol pads
- Antiseptic towelettes
3. Tools and Appliances
In times of emergency, it is important to have tools available that will help you turn off water or gas, mend broken appliances, and heat water. These resources include:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Duct tape
- Work gloves
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Knife, pliers, and scissors
4. Communication Essentials
After an earthquake, communication may be cut off for long periods of time. Having an AM/FM radio on hand is crucial to staying informed. Additionally, tablets, cell phones, and portable devices chargers are important.
5. Food, Snacks, and Board Games
In case of an earthquake, emergency services might take a while to arrive. Having snacks like nutrition bars, dried fruit, and granola will help keep students comfortable and calm. Having board games and prepared activities on hand is also beneficial, as electricity would likely be out and students may need something to keep them entertained.
Stay Prepared with School Safety Solution
Being prepared can reduce the fear, anxiety, and losses that accompany disasters. You can reduce the impact of an earthquake by taking pre-emergency precautions. For more information, supplies, or a quote for your own classroom earthquake kit, contact School Safety Solution today!
