Most emergency preparedness websites recommend that you have your kit somewhere readily accessible where you can grab it and go. Many people hang it on a hook in their garage. Some put it in a coat closet right inside the door. Some put it under their bed in case they are sleeping when they need it.
In any case, a few things to keep in mind:
- If possible, make sure you can get to your kit in more than one way. A friend was caught in the Northridge Earthquake in California in 1994 and was unable to get to his kit because the garage door wouldn't raise. The whole house had shifted on its foundation, and there was no other way in. So they were forced to leave it behind and rely on the Red Cross for food, shelter, clothing, etc. Although my family stores our kits in our garage, I also have them hung under a window that can be accessed in the event something similar happens.
- If you live in an earthquake area, you might want to consider caching a few supplies somewhere outside your house. A storage shed would provide access even if it was destroyed since most could be opened even if the doors don't work. I'm thinking of thin sheet metal or the "Rubbermade" type. You can also buy an outdoor seat (bench-like) that lifts open to store hoses, gardening supplies, etc. A big ziplock back with a blanket and a few essentials could be stored in it as well. Keep in mind this would be more susceptible to theft, so you wouldn't want to put anything in it you can't part with.
- A car can be a good place to store your kit with the added benefit that it would be with you when you're away. Be aware you'll need to rotate food and water more often if you live in a hot climate though.
Please leave any thoughts or critiques in the comments.
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