Better Ask Barry: Do you have your emergency disaster kit yet?

Earthquakes can strike at any time, even when you’re on the phone talking about them.

I was interviewing Monterey County’s Emergency Services manager Gerry Malais when there was a sharp pop, and then a rolling sensation.

“Speaking of an earthquake, one just happened,” said Malais.

It was just the first of several interruptions.

“Okay, hold on a minute. This is the state warning center telling me there’s an earthquake. Hold on one second,” he said.

Malais said some items in your emergency kit should be pretty obvious: Food, water, medications, a first aid kit, a flashlight or lantern, and a battery powered radio.

And don’t forget about your pets. They’ll need food, water, a blanket and leash.

There are other items that you might not think about, including gas.

“I don’t go anywhere without my vehicle having at least half a tank of gas in it. Gas stations can’t pump gas without electricity,” said Malais.

And keep cash on hand, since cash registers and credit card readers are also powered by electricity.

Quakes are sometimes followed by fires. Malais recommends that you keep digital copies of your important documents.

“People don’t necessarily document their important papers. You know, insurance papers and all of things that they’ll need to have down the road to start the recovery process.”

Monterey County’s Office of Emergency Services has listed an extensive list of tips for preparing for disaster on its website.

KION 2019