Go bags

 

“A “go bag” is a pre-packed emergency supply kit you can grab quickly as you head out the door, usually a backpack or small duffle bag.”

Information from Berkeleyside on What is a ‘go bag’ and how do I make one?

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Individual household food and water caches 

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Food, water and supplies may not be readily available immediately after a regional disaster. It is recommended to stockpile essentials in your home to last 1-2 weeks.

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 A reliable water supply is an important part of any preparedness program. Following a major earthquake, EBMUD says that they will get most residential customers back online within 30 days. In the meantime households should have their own drinking, cooking, and sanitation water.   Prepare for such an emergency by creating and storing a supply of water that will meet your family’s needs.

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This website from the CDC provides details and information for storing emergency water. Choose which method works for your household and situation.

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Below are links to websites where you can purchase water storage containers. These are provided for information and example only. Pricing and availability are subject to change by the vendor.​

• 55 gallon barrel ($71) 

• Water Pump ($35)

• Water Preservative ($20)

• 3.5 gallon stackable, ‘water brick’ plastic containers (16 containers cost around $300)

 

If one large, 55 gallon barrel is too difficult to locate and store safely, consider using stackable, ‘water brick’ plastic containers (16 3.5 gallon containers cost around $300). They are easier to move around and stack. They are more expensive and take more time to fill, preserve, and maintain. However, one could grab a few of these containers quickly in an emergency if you need to leave home, which is not possible with the large single 55 gallon barrel.

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Note also that the Lamorinda CERT Foundation sponsors a periodic purchase program for emergency items including water storage supplies. In 2023, their program included a pickup location in El Cerrito. See this link for more information on Lamorinda CERT's purchase program.

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Emergency Sanitation

In the aftermath of a significant seismic event, there may be disruption to the systems and services that we have come to rely on: water and sewer, electricity and gas.  Many of us are storing potable water in barrels, electricity in batteries, gas in bottles; however, sanitary facilities present a challenge for each household. One solution is to have an emergency toilet seat on a bucket and liners to contain the waste.

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Those of us that attended the BFN Holiday Party on January 7, 2024 had a chance to check out a sample of that bucket idea in the form of the Luggable Loo and many have placed their order for one for their own home.  You can check it out here:  https://www.rei.com/product/223884/reliance-luggable-loo-portable-toilet-with-metal-handle.

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Neighborhood caches

 

BFN maintains caches with emergency supplies. Food and water are *not* included. Contents include:

• Generator and lighting

• Folding canopy

• Communication equipment

• First aid and protective wear

• Tools and supplies

• Fire suppression equipment

 

These supplies can augment *but do not replace* individual home prep supplies. 

For details, contact Robin Beauchamp, beauchamp49@me.com

 

Preparing a first aid kit

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This article from the Red Cross describes the contents of a basic first aid kit.  

 

Preparing an earthquake emergency kit

 

A guide on creating an earthquake emergency kit from the California Earthquake Authority.

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Fire safety equipment

 

A guide from the Red Cross regarding residential fire safety equipment such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.