the big one

For all of us that live in the San Francisco bay area, we know it's only a matter of time - we are overdue for a strong earthquake.

I have prepared for my family as best I can by securing heavy furniture to the walls, installing automated gas shutoff devices, and maintaining this 'earthquake kit'. Stored safely in our back yard, it holds items that will be essential during a disaster: tools, a tent, blankets, first aid supplies, and canned food (water is stored separately). Today was my annual inspection of the kit to ensure everything is in place and to replace food items that have passed their expiration dates.