Here is the Week 5 shopping list from the American Red Cross 21 Weeks to Prepare plan:
[aesop_image imgwidth=”500px” img=”http://www.signaltribunenewspaper.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Screen-Shot-2016-06-16-at-4.34.05-PM.png” align=”center” lightbox=”on” captionposition=”center”] My emergency kit is coming together nicely. If you are following along and shopping for your emergency kit, you are probably wondering where to store all these supplies. I purchased a large storage container from a local big-box store. It is made of durable black plastic with a bright yellow lid, it cost less than $10.
My emergency kit purchases for these first five weeks have filled it half way, and I keep it stored in a cool, dark corner of my garage. By the time my 21 Weeks to Prepare kit is complete, I will probably need to purchase a second container. Yes, it’s going to take up some space, and you may find it difficult to find just the right spot to store your supplies— but what peace of mind you’ll have knowing how prepared you’ll be!
Our last article featured things to do before the quake, and, as promised, here are some of the steps to follow during and after an earthquake:
(The following is an excerpt from County of LA Emergency Survival Guide):
During an earthquake
• If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table, or stand in a corner. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets, heavy mirrors, hanging plants and other heavy objects that could fall. Watch out for falling plaster and ceiling tiles. Stay under cover until the shaking stops. Hold on to your cover— if it moves, move with it. Drop, cover, hold.
• If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines.
• If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid areas around power lines. Stay in your car until the shaking is over.
• If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the door. Crouch and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
After the earthquake
• Do not attempt to use the telephone unless there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency.
• If it is safe, check for gas and water leaks and broken electrical wiring or sewage lines. If there is damage, turn the utility off at the source and immediately report gas leaks to your utility company.
• Stay away from downed power lines and warn others to stay away.
• Do not attempt to re-light the gas pilot unless your gas line has been inspected.
• If you are able to safely do so, check your building for cracks and damage, including the roof, chimney and foundation.
• Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports.
• Cooperate fully with public safety officials and follow instructions; they are trained to ensure safety.
• Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency.
• Be prepared for aftershocks— stay calm and help others.
• If you evacuate, leave a message at your home telling family members and others where you can be found.
In the City of Signal Hill, we have a team of dedicated community members who have taken additional training to help our community immediately following any disaster. You can join this team by enrolling in our next CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program scheduled for September and our newly formed MYN (Map Your Neighborhood) program. Sign-ups are available now, and only about 15 spots still available.
For additional information and to sign up for these programs, contact Richard Johnson, Emergency Operations coordinator for Signal Hill, at (562) 989-7239 or rjohnson@signalhillpd.org .
For the full 21 Weeks to Prepare shopping list, visit cityofsignalhill.org or redcross.org, or download the new Go Signal Hill app. You can also have each week’s shopping list sent via text. Text “21 weeks” to (562) 477-1287.
