Scan the QR code to get this post on the go.
Unpredictable and potentially devastating, earthquakes are a real concern in the Philippines especially since the country sits at the earthquake belt. This region is also known as the Philippine mobile belt1 due to its complex tectonic setting. We’ll explain more on that on the next blog.
As the threat of the Big One looms, it’s crucial for every Filipino family to be prepared. And while we hope and continually pray that this event never occurs an earthquake survival kit can mean the difference between safety and chaos when disaster strikes. Here’s what you need to know.
The Importance of Earthquake Survival Kits:
Earthquakes can happen without any warning, leaving people and families with very little time to react. After an earthquake, things like roads and phones might not work well, making it hard for emergency workers to reach everyone quickly. And that’s where earthquake survival kits come in super handy. These kits are made to have the things you need to get by until help comes. They help fill the gap between when a disaster happens and when the pros can get there to help out.
Must-Have Items in Your Earthquake Survival Kit:
- Water: You should have enough water in store for three straight days should the water supply be interrupted during an earthquake. The recommended ratio is one gallon per person per day. Water helps you stay hydrated and keep things clean. Take note that if you intend to save water using water containers you should replace the contents every six months2.
What we recommend:
Datrex Emergency Water Packets. For drinking water that you can store for a long time. They’re small water pouches that are lightweight, durable and last for five years, so you won’t have to worry with the water becoming stale or having to replace it from time to time.
2. Non-Perishable Food: Get ready-to-eat foods like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits for three days. Be mindful of the expiry dates and check on them from time to time.
What we recommend:
Millennium Energy Bars. They’re non-perishable and come in various flavors. Plus, they won’t make you thirsty saving you some water. Energy bars provide the energy you need, and it helps conserve your food stock stretching your supply for several days more. You can stock them for 5 years and the quality won’t be affected.
Get one locally on Lazada: MRE High Energy Bar
3. First Aid Kit: Include things like band-aids, wipes, gauze, scissors, pain relievers, and any medicine you need. Don’t forget to include prescription medicines that any member of your family might need. Include the original copy of the doctor’s prescription as well.
What we recommend:
AMORNING First Aid Kit. It has everything you might need in an emergency such as soap wipes, gauge, alcohol pads, band-aids, bandages, cotton swabs, safety pins, emergency blanket, tweezers, torniquet, burn dressing, non-woven tapes, scissors, a mini bag and it comes in a small, waterproof bag.
Get one locally on Lazada: Buzesty Mini First Aid Kit
4. Flashlights and Batteries: Have a good flashlight and extra batteries in case the power goes out.
What we recommend:
Gearlight LED Tactical Flashlight. It’s super bright and durable. Made from military-grade aluminum making it practically indestructible and can withstand a 10-foot drop. It is weather resistant so no worries getting it wet.
Get one locally on Lazada: HP-01 Rechargeable LED flashlight
5. Whistle: A loud whistle can call for help if you’re stuck.
What we recommend:
DAILYCARRYCO. Titanium Whistle. It’s loud enough to be heard across some distance. Made from 100% Grade 5 Titanium which is corrosion-resistant, lightweight and durable that will last a lifetime.
Get one locally on Lazada: Qunature Titanium Survival Whistle
6. Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife: Tools like these can help with different tasks, from opening cans to minor repairs.
What we recommend:
Multifunction Emergency Hammer. It’s like a Swiss knife but with added tools. You can use it to hammer out objects or even break glass. It has rope cutters, safety belt cutters, screwdriver hole, Allen wrench (or hex key), nail puller, slotted screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, regular and needle nose pliers, bottle opener, and a serrated knife.
Get one locally on Lazada: SILVER KNIGHT 16 in 1 Outdoor Tool
7. Personal Documents: Copies of important papers like ID, insurance, and medical records in a waterproof container.
What we recommend:
Andyer Fireproof & Waterproof Document Bag. What makes this best suited for this purpose is that it is not only waterproof but fireproof as well that it can withstand temperatures up to 2000℉. Not only that, but it also has a reflective strip design so you can locate it immediately even at night.
Get one locally on Lazada: Oiking Fireproof Document Bag
8. Cash: Keep some cash since ATMs might not work during power outages.
What we recommend:
SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Money Safe. It’s a fire-resistant and water-resistant box that keeps your cash and other valuables secure and protected from fire up to 1/2 hour at 1550°F degrees F. It has a privacy key lock to keep unwanted viewers away and prevent the lid from opening in the event of fire.
Get one locally on Lazada: Oiking Waterproof Money Bag
9. Blankets and Clothing: Have warm blankets or sleeping bags and extra clothes for the weather.
What we recommend:
Don’t Die in The Woods Emergency Blankets. This is a massive 7×5 foot emergency blanket for full body protection. It’s big enough to be used as well as an emergency shelter, emergency sleeping bag, or as emergency bivy (single person sleeping bag). It is waterproof and preserves body heat to help prevent hypothermia when it is too cold or as blanket against hot weather.
Get one locally on Lazada: Life Bivy Portable Emergency Sleeping Bag
10. Hygiene and Sanitation Items: Pack soap, sanitizer, toothbrushes, feminine products, and garbage bags.
What we recommend:
Dead Down Wind Base Camp Hygiene Kit. It’s a 26-pc hygiene kit that includes a fully body bathing wipes, camp wash towels, soap, rinse free body wash and shampoo, soap bar, and toothbrush holder. Not exactly for emergencies but it provides the necessities: concentrated soap that’s tough enough to clean greasy dishes but mild on skin; bathing wipes that allows you to clean up even when access to water is limited and can be used for the entire body.
Get one locally on Lazada: Miniso Portable Hygiene Set
- Cell Phone Charger: A portable charger or solar-powered charger can help keep your cell phone operational during extended power outages. We can add power banks here but remember that their capacity and duration of power supply can be limited.
What we recommend:
BigBlue Solar Panel Charger. It’s a highly efficient solar panel that can stand up to elements and wear and tear better than conventional panels. It has a special PET polymer surface that protects the panels from occasional rain or wet fog and the ports are covered with rubber that protects it from dust or water damage. It can charge multiple devices at once and comes with a 50 cm USB-A to USB-C cable.
Get one locally on Lazada: 60W Foldable Solar Panel
- Local Maps: Have maps of your area in case GPS isn’t working. If your local government units have evacuation stations in place, consider marking them on your maps.
What we recommend:
Barangay Maps by Accu-map. After much searching, I highly recommend this publisher. You can order either printed or digital maps of your local barangay.
Remember, earthquake survival kits are important for everyone. They’re not just for places prone to earthquakes. Being ready for any disaster can make a huge difference for you and your loved ones. So, gather these items and get prepared for a safer tomorrow.
Disclaimer: Images for each numbered list does not represent the actual product.
Sources:
West Valley Fault 
Leave a comment