Earthquake Preparedness in SF - and Haiti Donations

Given the tragic earthquake in Haiti, it's time to revisit your own earthquake plan. I put a few links here to help you prepare.

EARTHQUAKE KITS
SFGate.com has a list of specific items to have on hand - plus tips on how to package them. Things like water in a plastic jug, a first aid kit, clothing, bedding, sanitary items (diapers anyone?), documents, cash, food and more.

In case that's not enough, here's another SF Chronicle list. It include the idea of making three kits - one for the house, one for work and one for the car. And to put the items in one container (like a backpack for smaller items, and a (clean) garbage can for the others).

Feeling lazy? If you don't have time to do one yourself, order a premade one like this premade earthquake kit. Lots of companies make them, and you can sometimes find them at Safeway or Costco too (Costco has one online right now).

EARTHQUAKE PLAN
It's scary to think about your spouse being at home or work, and your children being at school or daycare when an earthquake hits. But it could happen. Make a plan so your family knows what to do.

Here are some sample plans - one from FEMA. Here's another. Try to keep your phone charged, and have an additional backup battery. A hand-cranked flashlight/radio is good have on hand too - mine can charge a cellphone too (albeit not for long). Keep emergency numbers in your car, and stashed in various other places you might need them. Make sure the kids' school or daycare has all the updated/correct numbers.

HELP IN HAITI
We're sending some cash to aid organizations tonight. Here are some organizations you can help fund, to get care on the ground.

American Red Cross - donate here, or send a $10 donation by texting ‘Haiti’ to 90999. The American Red Cross has already pledged $1 million .

American Jewish World Service - an excellent organization that helps those in need around the world. They have local partners on the ground already, providing assistance.

Unicef is collecting funds to help children of the earthquake.

Here's a good list of other organizations.