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Through experiencing earthquakes in the past, Eric Holden felt the need to start preparing for a big one. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which promotes emergency preparedness. nike running shoesLast year, he ran an earthquake preparedness booth at the church's emergency preparedness fair. He feels rewarded by the piece of mind being prepared brings. He recently shared what he feels are ways to get prepared and stay safe during a big earthquake.

Q: What are some supplies you should have on-hand?

A: The first thing you need to worry about is water. You need to have food and clothing. The most important are food, shelter, warmth, change of clothing, batteries, flashlights, candles and glow sticks. For the home, you need pliers, a wrench, things you can use to shut things down. Plastic and duck tape in case you need to repair a broken window.

Q: Are there steps you can take to prepare your house?

A: Definitely. One of the first things you need is to make sure the water heater is secure. You can buy seismic straps. If it falls over, it will break the gas line. Make sure you know where the gas line is and how to shut it off. Know where your electrical panel is to shut off. Don't put heavy objects up high where they can fall.

Q: What should a person do right after an earthquake?

A: The first thing is to assess their own persons to make sure they are safe, if you have children and other family members. If you're in your home, assess the damage. Make sure gas lines are not broken, that the house is not off the foundation. Keep broadening your assessment of danger.

Q: What should a person do if they are trapped after an earthquake?

A: First thing to do is assess your situation and your surroundings. Are you injured? Are there things for first aid that can help? Are you trapped in an area that is going to be dangerous that is going to collapse on you? Can you move to a safer situation? Don't panic. That is the first thing you want to do.

Q: What is the biggest earthquake you have been in?

A: The one in Loma Prieta in 1989. That was probably the biggest one I was in but I was not anywhere near the epicenter. Throughout my life, I remember earthquakes but that one was the biggest shake I felt.2011 nike running shoes online

Q: What are the types of food you should have in your kit?

A: It needs to be food that can last six months to a year without being changed. One of the best foods is Top Ramen. It's easy to prepare, it's lightweight and it lasts forever. You just need hot water and you can mix it up. Also, peanut butter. It's a good source of protein and it's satisfying. Another thing is hard candies. The reason is because if you're in a stressful situation, sometimes being able to suck on candy can relax you. If you have small kids, it can help cope with the problem. Another one is Kraft Mac and Cheese. It's lightweight and lasts forever. You can also buy backpacking foods that are freeze dried.

Q: How do you cook things like the mac and cheese?

A: In my kit, I have a small fold-up stove where you can put a sterno can on top to cook the water. You don't need milk or butter. You will have your cheese that you can add to it. Also, another thing is you can take a new one-quart paint can and buy a roll of toilet paper. Take the cardboard out and put the toilet paper in the can and fill the middle with rubbing alcohol. If you light it, it fires up heat you can cook over. It will burn about 10 hours. It acts basically like a wick. The toilet paper doesn't burn. It's the alcohol burning.

Q: What is the best way to make sure your family is OK if they are not with you?

A: Put in your kit all the names, addresses and phone numbers of everyone to contact. You want to have an out of the area person to contact so that everyone can contact that person and say they are OK. If there is no phone service, have a place where you can meet up together. It could be a park.Reebok EasyTone

Q: What is the biggest earthquake preparation tip you can provide?

A: Get started would be the best thing. Most people are overwhelmed. Get a backpack and get stuff together. Be familiar with your home. Get online and start researching. We never know when there is going to be one.