The "Big One"

On February 21, 2025, during our usual lunch period, Sentinel Secondary students experienced a 5.1 magnitude earthquake—a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of seismic activity. Following standard protocol, students were instructed to drop, cover, and hold on.

This event highlights the looming possibility of the "Big One." Scientists commonly agree that a major earthquake is overdue, given that it has been over 300 years since the last massive quake in the region. It is also because Vancouver is in the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is capable of producing megathrust earthquakes exceeding magnitude 9.0. According to the Oregon government, “scientists are predicting that there is about a 37% chance that a megathrust earthquake of 7.1+ magnitude in this fault zone will occur in the next 50 years.”

While this may sound alarming, the best way to stay safe is through preparedness. So, I’ve compiled a comprehensive survival kit:

Every survival kit should be tailored to an individual’s needs, having items that fit the needs of each person; however, these are the absolute must-haves:

• Water – One gallon per person per day (3 days' supply)

• Food – Non-perishable items (granola bars, canned goods, dried fruit) – 3-7 days' worth

• Flashlight – With extra batteries

• First-aid kit – Include personal medications

• Dust masks – To filter debris and smoke

• Whistle – For signaling help

• Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife – For various emergency uses

• Fire extinguisher – Small, multi-purpose

• Power bank and extra phone charging cable

These are some of the essentials, but here are some more specific items that I think are equally as important but less recognized:

• Glowsticks – Provide light without draining batteries

• Games/Puzzles – To boost morale!

• Personal documents (waterproof pouch) – IDs, medical info, emergency contacts

• Emergency blanket – Retains body heat

• Local maps – In case GPS is not available

Extra tips:

• Keep your survival kits in a convenient place, such as the closet near your front entrance or in your garage

• Discuss an emergency plan with everyone who lives in your home: what you’ll do, how you’ll best communicate, who’ll grab the survival kit

• Regularly check and update your supplies, making sure your food and water aren’t expired!

There you go! A step-by-step guide on how to create the ultimate survival kit in case of an emergency.