5 Essential Earthquake Supplies to Stay Prepared!

Let’s talk about 5 Earthquake Supplies you didn’t know you needed. Are you and your family prepared for an earthquake? It can be a scary and dangerous situation, but being prepared can help keep you and your family safe.

Introduction

Earthquakes can happen at any time and without warning. They can cause power outages, gas leaks, and other emergency situations. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and have some essential supplies on hand.

Why Do You Need Earthquake Supplies?

Earthquake supplies are essential for many reasons. Here are a few:

• Power outages: Earthquakes can knock out power to your home or workplace. You may need to rely on your own sources of light, heat, and communication.

• Gas leaks: Earthquakes can cause gas leaks, which can be dangerous and even deadly. You’ll need supplies to help you stay safe and breathe clean air.

• Injuries: Earthquakes can cause injuries from falling objects, broken glass, or other hazards. You’ll need supplies to help you treat any injuries until help arrives.

Having some earthquake supplies on hand can help you stay safe and comfortable in these situations.

Supply #1: Hand Crank Emergency Radio & Portable Charger

A hand crank emergency radio and portable charger is a small device that has an am/fm radio, flashlight and a hand crank charger.

Why you need it: During an earthquake, you may need to contact someone for help or get updates on the situation. A hand crank emergency radio can help keep you informed during an emergency, so you can listen to updates and news. Also, allows an extra source of emergency light and a way to keep  your phone charged so you can make important calls or access information when you need it. It’s usually charged up ahead of time and can provide several charges for your phone or other devices.

Supply #2: Emergency Blanket

An emergency blanket is a lightweight, compact blanket that can help keep you warm during an earthquake. It’s made of a special material that reflects your body heat back to you, which can help you stay warm even if you don’t have power or heat.

Why you need it: If you’re stuck in a cold or wet environment after an earthquake, an emergency blanket can help keep you warm and prevent hypothermia.

Supply #3: Water Filtration Straw

A water filtration straw is a small, portable device that you can use to filter water. It removes bacteria and other contaminants from water, making it safe to drink.

Why you need it: After an earthquake, drinking water may not be readily available or safe to drink. With a water filtration straw, you can drink water from lakes, streams, or other sources without worrying about getting sick.

Supply #4: Gloves

In an emergency, your hands are one of your greatest assets.

Why you need it: Protecting your hands should be one of your top priorities and one of your main staples in your earthquake supplies. From work gloves to medical grade/exam gloves, consider all the tasks that may take place during an emergency. Clearing rubble, removing dangers or even sanitary tasks, gloves will give you and your family a greater chance of survival.

Find Work gloves: Here
Find Nitrile Gloves: Here

Supply #5: Lightsticks

Lightsticks are small, colorful sticks that light up in the dark. They’re lightweight, portable, and can provide light for several hours.

Why you need it: If you’re in a dark environment after an earthquake, Lightsticks can help provide light and visibility. They’re also useful for signaling for help or marking your location. Lighter and a great alternative source of light than a flashlight and batteries. Take them on trips, store them at work, in bags and vehicles. Great for hotels, workplaces and signaling in an emergency.

Find them here: Lightsticks

Other Supplies to Consider

In addition to the supplies mentioned above, there are other earthquake supplies you might want to consider, such as:

First Aid Kit: A first aid kit can help you treat injuries or illnesses during an earthquake. It should include things like bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers.

Multi-tool: A multi-tool is a small, portable tool that can be used for a variety of tasks. It might include a knife, pliers, screwdrivers, and other tools.

Whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help or alert others to your location.

Cash: In an earthquake, ATMs may not be available or working. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand in case you need to buy supplies or pay for transportation.

Have it all ready to Grab-n-Go! The 72 Hour Emergency Kit

It’s important to keep your earthquake supplies in a safe, easily accessible location.

Here are some tips:

• Purchase a 72 Hour Emergency Kit, complete with emergency food and water, as one of your core earthquake supplies.
• Have one kit per person, in your family to ensure to have enough supplies.
• Keep your emergency kits in a location that’s easy to remember: You don’t want to have to search for your earthquake supplies during an emergency.
• Access: If you need to leave your home quickly, you don’t want to have to dig through a pile of clutter to find your supplies.
• Maintain your earthquake supplies every 6 months. Check for expire dates, replace if needed and keep track.

FAQs

1. Do I really need all these supplies?

• It’s always better to be safe than sorry. You never know when an earthquake might happen, and having these supplies on hand can help you stay safe and comfortable.

2. Can I buy all these supplies at once?

• Yes, you can buy all these supplies at once or gradually build up your earthquake kit over time.

3. How often should I check my earthquake supplies?

• It’s a good idea to check your earthquake supplies every six months to make sure they’re still in good condition and haven’t expired.

4. What if I can’t afford all these supplies?

• You can start with the essentials and gradually add to your earthquake kit over time. It’s better to have some supplies than none at all.

5. What if I have specific medical needs during an earthquake?

• If you have specific medical needs, make sure to include any medications or medical supplies in your earthquake kit. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on what to include.

Resources:

Earthquake Preparedness Online Course
Emergency Earthquake Plan

Check out our other blogs on Emergency Preparedness:

5 Pillars of Emergency Preparedness
72 Hour Emergency Checklist

The Importance of Basic First Aid Training for Canadians

Basic First Aid Training is a crucial life skill that can benefit everyone, regardless of their occupation, age, or location. In Canada, where a diverse range of environments and situations are encountered daily, having a solid foundation in first aid can make a significant difference in emergencies. This blog will discuss the importance of basic first aid training for Canadians, its everyday applications, and how it can empower individuals to take decisive action when it matters most.

Saving Lives in Emergency Situations

The primary goal of basic first aid training is to equip individuals with the skills necessary to save lives in emergencies. Whether it’s a workplace accident, a sports-related injury, or an unforeseen medical emergency at home, having basic first aid knowledge can be the difference between life and death. By providing immediate care and stabilizing the victim until professional help arrives, trained individuals can increase the chances of a positive outcome.

Encouraging a Culture of Preparedness

Basic first aid training fosters a sense of preparedness among Canadians, enabling them to take responsibility for their safety and that of others. In a country where diverse environments and activities present various risks, it is essential for individuals to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle emergencies effectively. By being well-trained and confident, individuals can remain calm and make sound judgments, ultimately contributing to better outcomes.

Everyday Applications of Basic First Aid Training

Basic first aid training is not just about handling life-threatening emergencies. It also equips individuals with the skills to address everyday situations that may require intervention, such as minor injuries, burns, or choking incidents. The following are some practical applications of basic first aid training in the everyday lives of Canadians:

1. Dealing with Minor Injuries

Cuts, scrapes, and bruises are a common occurrence in daily life, especially for those with active lifestyles or young children. First aid training teaches Canadians how to clean and dress wounds properly, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.

2. Treating Burns and Scalds

Whether it’s a sunburn from a day at the beach or a scald from a hot beverage, burns are a prevalent issue in Canadian households. First aid training provides individuals with the knowledge to assess the severity of burns and apply appropriate treatment, minimizing the risk of complications and long-term damage.

3. Managing Choking Incidents

Choking can occur suddenly and without warning, making it a particularly frightening emergency. Canadians with first aid training can recognize the signs of choking and perform the first aid maneuvers or other appropriate techniques to dislodge the obstruction, potentially saving a life.

4. Recognizing and Responding to Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions can range from mild to life-threatening, and in some cases, rapid intervention is crucial. First aid training teaches Canadians how to identify the signs of a severe allergic reaction, administer an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), and provide ongoing care until professional help arrives.

5. Providing Support in Mental Health Crises

Mental health crises, such as panic attacks or suicidal thoughts, are emergencies that require compassionate and informed intervention. First aid training in Canada often includes mental health first aid components, which equip individuals with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health crises effectively. This can involve active listening, providing reassurance, and connecting the person in crisis to appropriate professional help.

6. Responding to Outdoor Emergencies

Canada’s diverse landscape and love for outdoor activities can expose individuals to unique emergencies, such as hypothermia, frostbite, or heatstroke. Basic first aid training teaches Canadians how to recognize the symptoms of these conditions and take appropriate action, such as rewarming techniques, hydration, and seeking medical assistance when necessary.

7. Addressing Sports-Related Injuries

Sports and physical activities are an essential part of Canadian culture. However, they can also lead to injuries, such as sprains, strains, and fractures. First aid training prepares individuals to manage these injuries, from initial assessment to immobilization and referral to professional care.

8. First Aid Training for the Workplace

Workplace accidents and emergencies can occur in any industry, from construction sites to office environments. Canadians who have undergone first aid training are well-equipped to respond to workplace emergencies, ensuring the safety of their colleagues and minimizing the impact of injuries or illnesses.

See our SOS Oxygen & OHS Programs for British Columbia and Alberta below.

Empowering Canadians Through First Aid Training

First aid training has numerous benefits for Canadians, not just in terms of personal safety but also in developing a sense of responsibility and community engagement. By learning first aid, individuals are better prepared to step up and help others in need, creating a safer and more supportive environment for all. Canadians can contribute to a culture of preparedness and safety within their communities by:

Promoting a Sense of Responsibility

Encouraging Community Engagement

Empowering Bystanders to Take Action

The Importance of AED Registry: Accessibility, Maintenance, and Availability

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving devices specifically designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart of individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). These portable and easy-to-use medical devices have the potential to dramatically increase the survival rate of SCA victims by restoring a normal heart rhythm and allowing the heart to resume pumping blood effectively.

WHAT is an AED Registry?

An AED Registry is a comprehensive database that keeps track of all the publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in a specific area. In an emergency, when 911 is notified, operators can quickly identify the nearest AED by consulting the registry, directing bystanders to its location, and potentially increasing the chances of survival for the victim. Not only does the registry assist in locating these essential devices, but it also plays a vital role in raising awareness about their importance in our communities. 

Fact: Nine of 10 Canadian provinces have an AED registry; they differ with regards to their management, content, and quality assurance processes.

WHY an AED Registry?

Accessibility:

In the event of an emergency, an AED Registry can be your best friend when it comes to finding the nearest publicly accessible AED. When you call 911, the dispatcher can quickly consult the registry and guide you to the closest available AED, potentially making all the difference for someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. By having this valuable information at hand, the AED Registry helps ensure that these life-saving devices can be easily located and put to use when every second counts.

Maintenance:

The best way to maintain an AED is with an AED Service Contract with SOS Emergency Response Technologies, it’s the perfect solution for maintaining the health and safety of your workplace.

SOS can offer an AED Service Contract that may include:

• Annual Inspection: A comprehensive Annual AED inspection
• Replacement of electrodes and battery at expiry: Ensuring that your device is always ready when you need it.
• On-site AED training review: Keep your staff up-to-date on the latest procedures, so they can respond quickly and confidently in case of an emergency.
• Replacement Parts: 10% discount on all accessories and replacement parts.
• Training: Access to SOS OHS First Aid training at preferred client rates.
• Products: Access to SOS’s full product line at preferred rates.

Availability:

An AED Registry serve as an invaluable resource for identifying areas in the community where public access to these life-saving devices is limited or nonexistent. By collecting and analyzing data on the locations of existing AEDs, registries can highlight gaps in coverage and help community leaders and emergency response organizations focus their efforts on installing AEDs in areas with the greatest need. In doing so, an AED Registry contribute to the creation of safer, more prepared communities, ultimately increasing the chances of survival for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest in public spaces.

WHERE to Register?

In BRITISH COLUMBIA:

PulsePoint.org

The PulsePoint Respond App is a fantastic tool that keeps you informed if there’s a potential out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest victim within 400 meters of your location anywhere in British Columbia. If a public access defibrillator is close by, the app will kindly guide you to its location. When you receive the alert and locate the patient, you can jump into action by performing hands-only CPR and, if available, using the AED until the professional responders show up. It’s a wonderful way to be proactive and help save lives in your community!

Who can join in?

If you’re in B.C. and able to provide CPR to a sudden cardiac arrest victim, you’re invited to download the PulsePoint app.
What you need to know:

• You must be trained in hands-only CPR.
• You’ll get info about the closest AED, so if you’re trained to use AEDs, you can send someone to grab it.
• If you’re unsure about using the AED, BCEHS call-takers will guide you through it.
• PulsePoint app covers all of BC, sending alerts if a victim is within 400 meters of your location.

AED Registry for BC here: PulsePoint Respond App

In ALBERTA: Alberta Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD) Program

The Alberta Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD) Program is dedicated to increasing survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by motivating communities and equipping the public with the necessary knowledge and tools. By creating awareness around the importance of early intervention and fostering a supportive environment, the program encourages individuals to take an active role in improving emergency response within their community.

The Benefits

This AED Registry aims to boost survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by inspiring communities and empowering the public to:

• Place Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in easily accessible public areas
• Enroll AEDs in the complimentary AHS Heart-Safe.ca database
• Communicate AED locations with 9-1-1 Emergency Medical Services Dispatch
• Participate in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training
• Utilize an AED during medical emergencies

AED Registry for Alberta here: Alberta Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD) Program

Contact us for more information on Automated External Defibrillators