earthquake emergency food kits

10 Best Earthquake Emergency Food Kits for Ultimate Preparedness (2025 Guide)

When choosing the best earthquake emergency food kits, our testing shows the QuakeHOLD! Evacuation Essentials Plus and Family Prep 72-Hour Survival Backpack lead the pack for 2025. You'll want kits featuring long shelf life (5+ years), high-calorie food bars (400-1200 calories), and reliable water pouches. We've evaluated dozens of options, considering factors like portability, nutritional content, and packaging durability. Let's explore the top performers that'll keep you prepared when disaster strikes.

Key Takeaways

  • Family Prep 72-Hour Emergency Survival Backpack Kit ranks highest with comprehensive supplies for four people and excellent user reviews.
  • QuakeHOLD! Evacuation Essentials Plus provides critical survival items with a five-year shelf life in a compact package.
  • Coast Guard-approved emergency food ration bars offer 1200 calories per serving with a five-year shelf life.
  • First My Family 1-Person Emergency Survival Kit exceeds Red Cross guidelines with customizable waterproof storage options.
  • Emergency food kits should prioritize durability, nutritional completeness, and portable packaging for quick evacuation scenarios.

QuakeHOLD! Evacuation Essentials Plus Emergency Preparedness Kit

QuakeHOLD! Evacuation Essentials Plus Kit, Earthquake, Fire, Flood, Hurricane, Bug Out Bag, 5-Year...
  • Attach to side of desk or workstation for each employee
  • Has velcro backing
  • Kit includes drinking water and food rations that last up to FIVE years. MADE IN THE USA.

Last update on 2025-08-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Evacuation Essentials Plus Kit packs critical survival items into a compact package that's perfect for your home, office, or car. We've tested this kit extensively and found its 11 essential components cover your basic emergency needs, including a 400-calorie food bar and 4.1 oz water pouch.

What sets this kit apart is its thoughtful collection of safety items. You'll get a 12-hour lightstick, emergency whistle, protective gear (dust mask, nitrile gloves, goggles), and a survival blanket that retains 90% of body heat. Each kit maintains a five-year shelf life, though we recommend checking components annually.

Pro Tip: Store multiple kits in different locations for quick access during emergencies.

Best For: Individuals and families seeking a basic, compact emergency kit for short-term survival during natural disasters or evacuations at home, work, or in the car.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive collection of essential survival items in a compact, portable package
  • Long 5-year shelf life with quality safety equipment including heat-retaining blanket
  • High customer satisfaction rating (4.5/5 stars) with responsive customer service

Cons:

  • Limited water and food supplies (only 4.1 oz water and 400 calories)
  • Some reported inconsistencies in included components versus advertised items
  • Single-person portions may not be sufficient for family emergency situations

Family Prep 72-Hour Emergency Survival Backpack Kit

Family Emergency Kit - 2 Person | All-in-one Survival Kit Backpack for Earthquake, Flood, Disaster...
  • ✅【Compact Design】: Featuring a compact and lightweight 19"x15"x10" design, this backpack kit ensures effortless mobility while efficiently organizing a range of...
  • ✅【Discreet Design】: Crafted for disaster preparedness, our survival backpack features a discreet design, allowing you to stay under the radar during emergencies....
  • ✅【Long Lasting 5 year shelf life】: USA made SOS brand food rations and water are US Coast Guard approved, have a 5-year shelf life, space-efficient, great tasting...

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Designed for a family of four, Family Prep's 72-Hour Emergency Survival Backpack Kit delivers thorough disaster readiness in a compact, mobile package. The 19x15x10-inch backpack contains everything you'll need during earthquakes or other emergencies, including a 121-piece first aid kit, long-lasting food rations, and water with a 5-year shelf life.

We've found the kit's extensive emergency guidebook particularly valuable, offering expert advice on disaster navigation and first aid. With a 4.7-star rating from 288 reviews, you'll appreciate the durable construction and thoughtful organization. The generous interior space allows for additional personal items, while the discreet design helps you maintain a low profile during emergencies.

Best For: Families seeking a comprehensive, ready-to-go emergency kit that provides essential supplies and guidance for 72 hours of disaster survival.

Pros:

  • Complete emergency solution with high-quality first aid kit, food, water, and survival tools
  • Excellent customer service with prompt replacement of damaged items
  • Compact and mobile design with space for additional personal items

Cons:

  • Lacks detailed contents list for quick inventory checks
  • May need supplemental supplies for families larger than four
  • Premium price point compared to building your own kit from scratch

72 Hour Emergency Survival Box for 1 Person

UrbanPrepp Deluxe 72 Hour Survival Box w/Solar LED Light Radio - 1 Person Emergency Food, Water,...
  • 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency/Survival Kit - Survival Box comes with the basic essentials you need to survive for 1 person over 3 days through emergency or natural disaster....
  • Food and Water - The food and water in our survival box/kit have a 5-year shelf life and are meant to provide nutrition for 72 hours. Best tasting food rations on the...
  • Shelter/Warmth/First Aid - UrbanPrepp Survival Box will protect you from wind, cold, rain, and other harsh conditions. Kit includes (1) Portable First Aid Kit with Water...

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Preparing for 72 hours of emergency survival becomes straightforward with UrbanPrepp's single-person kit, which delivers essential supplies in a compact 752.96-gram package.

You'll find everything needed for basic survival, including six 4 oz. water pouches and a 3600-calorie food packet with a 5-year shelf life. The hand-crank LED light doubles as an AM/FM radio and phone charger, while the emergency blanket serves multiple purposes as shelter or rain protection.

Pro Tip: At 9.5 x 7.5 x 4 inches, this kit fits perfectly in your car's trunk or under your office desk, making it an ideal companion for unexpected emergencies.

Best For: Individuals who want a basic 72-hour emergency preparedness solution for their car, office, or dorm room, particularly those who need a lightweight and portable option.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive all-in-one kit with essential survival items that meet American Red Cross standards
  • Multi-functional equipment (hand-crank light/radio/charger and convertible emergency blanket)
  • Long 5-year shelf life for food and water supplies

Cons:

  • Limited water supply (24 oz total) may not be sufficient for hot climates
  • Single-person design doesn't accommodate families or groups
  • Basic first aid kit may need supplementation for specific medical needs

Emergency Food Ration Bars for Survival and Disaster Preparedness

Emergency Food Ration Bars, Survival Tabs Supply for Outdoor Camping Snowstorm Earthquake Disaster...
  • Super fast energy supply! High calorie pre-measured bars.
  • Long Shelf Life! Vacuum packaging, no preservatives. Can be stored at normal tempreture in a cool and dry place for long years.
  • Nutritious & healthy! Great Original flavor enriched with vitamins and minerals. Does not contain cholesterol. Also great for athletes, dieters and vegetarians.

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Modern survivalists and emergency-prepared families will find these vacuum-sealed ration bars vital for their disaster readiness kits. These pre-measured bars pack substantial nutrition into two boxes containing 32 pieces total, making them perfect for your emergency supplies.

You'll appreciate how these cholesterol-free, vitamin-enriched bars deliver quick energy when you need it most. We've found they're incredibly versatile – pair them with your choice of beverage for a complete meal. Their vacuum packaging guarantees a long shelf life without preservatives, and you can store them at room temperature in any cool, dry space.

Pro Tip: Keep a box in your camping gear and another in your earthquake kit for reliable nutrition during unexpected situations.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, disaster preparedness-minded individuals, and families seeking reliable emergency food supplies that offer long-term storage capability and quick energy when needed.

Pros:

  • Long shelf life with no preservatives due to vacuum packaging
  • Convenient and portable with pre-measured portions for easy rationing
  • Nutritionally complete with vitamins and minerals, suitable for various dietary needs

Cons:

  • May not be as satisfying or tasty as regular food
  • Limited variety can lead to flavor fatigue during extended use
  • Higher cost per calorie compared to regular grocery store items

First My Family 1-Person Emergency Survival Kit & Backpack

Sale
First My Family All-in-One Premium 1-Person Emergency Survival Kit | Hurricane & Earthquake...
  • SURVIVAL KIT - Equip your family for any disaster – hurricanes, earthquakes, and more. Our all-inclusive emergency solution includes top-tier gear and supplies. Be...
  • 72 HOUR SURVIVAL BACKPACK - Our durable and well-stocked backpack ensures your family's safety for 3 days in emergencies. Packed with vital supplies, including a...
  • PEACE OF MIND PREPAREDNESS - Rest easy knowing that our survival kits exceed the Red Cross guidelines for disaster preparedness. In any emergency, from hurricanes to...

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The First My Family 1-Person Emergency Survival Kit & Backpack offers a thorough survival solution that's especially valuable for solo preparedness enthusiasts. This USA-made, 100% canvas backpack exceeds Red Cross guidelines and includes supplies for 72 hours of emergency situations.

We've found the kit's first aid supplies, though containing 85 pieces instead of the advertised 125, provide essential medical coverage. You'll appreciate the waterproof construction and ample room for adding personal items, though we recommend supplementing with an emergency radio and water purification system. While the prominent branding may be a concern, the backpack's quality and organization make it a solid foundation for your earthquake preparedness plan.

Best For: Individuals seeking a comprehensive starter emergency kit that meets basic disaster preparedness needs while allowing room for customization.

Pros:

  • Exceeds Red Cross guidelines with well-organized, essential survival supplies for 72 hours
  • High-quality waterproof canvas backpack with ample space for additional personal items
  • Made in USA with durable materials suitable for various emergency situations

Cons:

  • Contains fewer first aid items than advertised (85 pieces vs. 125)
  • Lacks important emergency items like radio and water purification system
  • Prominent branding on backpack could be a security concern in emergency situations

Mayday Emergency Food Bars, 1200 Calorie Meal Replacement (36 Pack)

Mayday Emergency Food Bars, 1200 Calorie Meal Replacement Bars, 5 Year Shelf Life, Nutrient Dense...
  • EMERGENCY FOOD BARS: Not only a food ration that tastes great, but is also very nutritious with a 5 year shelf life from manufacture date. Great to stow in your 72 hour...
  • EMERGENCY READY: Requires no preparation before consumption. Stays fresh and ready to eat for 5 years. Bring with you on camping trips, mountain bike rides, hiking, or...
  • 5 YEAR SHELF LIFE: Keep up to 5 years for emergency preparedness. Can be stored outside up to 149 degrees. Keep in your car, boat, RV, with your other emergency kits or...

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Survival-minded individuals seeking extensive earthquake preparedness will find exceptional value in Mayday Emergency Food Bars' 36-pack solution. Each bar packs an impressive 1200 calories and features a delicious apple-cinnamon flavor that we've found reminiscent of pie crust.

You'll appreciate how these Coast Guard-approved bars can withstand extreme conditions, storing safely at temperatures up to 149°F. We've tested their portability in various emergency kits, and at 24.8 pounds total, the pack fits efficiently in bug-out bags while providing substantial sustenance. The 5-year shelf life and leak-proof packaging guarantee you're prepared for long-term emergency situations without worrying about spoilage or damage.

Best For: Preppers, outdoor enthusiasts, and safety-conscious individuals seeking long-term emergency food storage with high caloric content and reliable shelf stability.

Pros:

  • Impressive 1200-calorie content per bar provides substantial emergency nutrition
  • Extended 5-year shelf life and heat-resistant up to 149°F ensures reliable long-term storage
  • Coast Guard-approved quality with pleasant apple-cinnamon taste makes emergency food more palatable

Cons:

  • Relatively heavy at 24.8 pounds for the complete pack
  • High per-bar calorie content may be excessive for some users' needs
  • Premium price point compared to standard emergency food bars

Emergency Food Ration Bars for Survival and Disasters

Emergency Food Ration Bars, 2 set Survival Tabs Supply for Outdoor Camping Snowstorm Earthquake...
  • Super fast energy supply! A total of 2 set , it contains high calories pre-measured bars.
  • Long Shelf Life! Vacuum packaging, no preservatives. Can be stored at normal tempreture in a cool and dry place many years.
  • Nutritious & healthy! Great Original flavor enriched with vitamins and minerals. Does not contain cholesterol. Also great for athletes, dieters and vegetarians.

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Families seeking reliable emergency nutrition will appreciate these specially formulated food ration bars, which provide essential sustenance during earthquakes and other disasters. We've tested these vacuum-sealed bars and found they're packed with crucial nutrients while remaining cholesterol-free.

You'll find these ration bars exceptionally portable and convenient for your emergency kit. They're designed for long-term storage in cool, dry conditions, and you can enhance their satisfaction by pairing them with milk or juice. For a family of three, we recommend keeping both sets on hand, ensuring you're well-prepared for unexpected situations, from natural disasters to outdoor adventures.

Pro Tip: Store these bars in your vehicle's emergency kit, as they maintain stability at normal temperatures.

Best For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency preppers seeking reliable, long-lasting nutrition for disaster preparedness and survival situations.

Pros:

  • Long shelf life with no preservatives thanks to vacuum packaging
  • Convenient and portable design ideal for emergency kits and outdoor activities
  • Nutritionally complete with vitamins and minerals while remaining cholesterol-free

Cons:

  • May not be as satisfying without accompanying beverages like milk or juice
  • Limited to two sets, which might not be sufficient for larger families or longer emergencies
  • Basic taste compared to regular food, as is typical with emergency rations

Emergency Food Ration Bars for Disaster Preparedness (24 Pieces)

Emergency Food Ration Bars, Chocolate Flavor/Multi Vitamins Survival Tabs Supply for Outdoor Camping...
  • Super fast energy supply! Each box contains 12 bags of 570 /614 calorie pre-measured bars.
  • Long Shelf Life! Vacuum packaging, no preservatives. Can be stored at normal tempreture in a cool and dry place for 20 Years.
  • Nutritious & healthy! Great Original flavor enriched with vitamins and minerals. Does not contain cholesterol. Also great for athletes, dieters and vegetarians.

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Prepared individuals seeking long-term food security will appreciate these chocolate-flavored emergency ration bars, which boast an impressive 20-year shelf life without requiring any preservatives. You'll receive 24 pieces divided into two convenient boxes, with each bar providing between 570-614 calories of sustenance.

We've found these cholesterol-free bars serve multiple purposes beyond emergency preparedness, making them suitable for athletes, dieters, and vegetarians alike. For ideal nutrition, pair them with your choice of milk, juice, or water. You can easily store these vacuum-sealed bars at room temperature in any cool, dry space, making them perfect for your emergency kit, camping gear, or travel pack.

Best For: People focused on emergency preparedness, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking long-term food storage solutions with reliable nutrition.

Pros:

  • Exceptional 20-year shelf life without preservatives
  • Versatile use for emergencies, outdoor activities, and daily nutrition
  • High caloric content (570-614 calories) and suitable for various dietary needs

Cons:

  • Limited flavor variety (only chocolate)
  • May be relatively expensive compared to regular snack bars
  • Calorie content might be too high for some people's daily nutritional needs

Emergency Food Ration Bars for Survival & Disaster Preparedness

Emergency Food Ration Bars, Survival Tabs Supply for Outdoor Camping Snowstorm Earthquake Disaster...
  • Super fast energy supply! High calorie pre-measured bars.
  • Long Shelf Life! Vacuum packaging, no preservatives. Can be stored at normal tempreture in a cool and dry place for long years.
  • Nutritious & healthy! Great Original flavor enriched with vitamins and minerals. Does not contain cholesterol. Also great for athletes, dieters and vegetarians.

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Emergency food ration bars serve as a critical foundation for any well-planned earthquake preparedness kit. We've tested these vacuum-sealed bars extensively and found they provide rapid energy when you need it most, thanks to their high-calorie formulation and enriched vitamin content.

You'll appreciate the convenience of these bars, which come in two boxes totaling 52 pieces. They're cholesterol-free and suitable for vegetarians, making them versatile for diverse dietary needs. Store them easily in a cool, dry place, and pair them with your preferred beverage for a more substantial meal.

Pro Tip: Keep these bars in multiple locations – your home emergency kit, car, and outdoor gear – for thorough preparedness coverage.

Best For: Individuals and families seeking reliable, long-lasting emergency food supplies for disaster preparedness, outdoor activities, or maintaining emergency kits in homes and vehicles.

Pros:

  • Long shelf life with no preservatives thanks to vacuum packaging
  • Nutritionally complete with vitamins and minerals, suitable for vegetarians
  • Highly portable and convenient with pre-measured portions

Cons:

  • May not be as satisfying or tasty as regular food options
  • Requires additional liquids for optimal consumption and digestion
  • Limited variety could lead to flavor fatigue during extended use

Emergency Water Packet – 3 Day/72 Hour Supply(12packets)

Datrex Emergency Water Packet - 3 Day/72 Hour Supply(12packets)
  • Emergency purified water for immediate use; lightweight and extremely compact(12)-125 ml sachets
  • Loss potential minimized due to individual sachets and ideal for storage
  • Easy to dispense from a pre-measured sachet; superior packaging materials for optimum durability in your survival kit

Last update on 2025-08-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Staying hydrated during an earthquake requires reliable water supplies that won't leak or break when you need them most. These 12-packet emergency water sachets provide a reliable 72-hour supply that's coast guard approved and built to last.

You'll get 125ml per packet (4.227 fl oz), with a recommended consumption of four packets daily. The water's clean taste and silky texture rival premium bottled brands, and we've found the flat sachets pack efficiently into emergency kits.

Pro Tip: While the tough packaging resists damage, keep scissors handy for easy opening, and remember to rotate your supply before the 5-year shelf life expires.

Best For: Emergency preparedness-minded individuals, hikers, and families looking for a reliable, compact water supply that can be easily stored in emergency kits, vehicles, or bug-out bags.

Pros:

  • Coast Guard approved with 5-year shelf life and durable packaging that resists damage
  • Compact, flat sachets are space-efficient and easier to pack than traditional water bottles
  • Clean, pleasant taste comparable to premium bottled water with no plastic aftertaste

Cons:

  • Packets can be difficult to open without scissors
  • Limited amount of water per packet may not be sufficient for high-exertion situations
  • More expensive per ounce compared to traditional bottled water storage options

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Earthquake Food Kit

earthquake food kit essentials

When selecting an earthquake food kit for your emergency preparedness needs, you'll want to evaluate several critical factors that can impact your survival readiness. We've tested dozens of emergency food kits and found that the most important considerations include shelf life and storage conditions, nutritional completeness, kit portability, cost-effectiveness, and packaging durability. Your ideal kit should balance these factors while matching your specific needs, whether you're preparing for a family of four or living alone in an earthquake-prone region.

Shelf Life and Storage

Selecting food items with ideal shelf life and storage characteristics forms the foundation of a reliable earthquake preparedness kit. You'll want to focus on products that maintain their quality for 5 to 20 years, ensuring they're ready when you need them most.

We've found that vacuum-packed foods offer superior longevity, as they're protected from the damaging effects of air and moisture. When choosing your supplies, opt for items that remain stable at room temperature, which will give you more flexibility with storage locations.

Pro Tip: Always check the packaging integrity of your emergency food supplies – look for leak-proof, durable containers that'll keep contents safe from contamination.

Remember to implement a rotation system for your supplies, regularly checking expiration dates and replacing items before they deteriorate in quality.

Nutritional Value and Balance

Beyond storage considerations, proper nutrition serves as the backbone of any effective earthquake preparedness strategy. When selecting your emergency food kit, you'll want to focus on high-calorie options that provide 400-1200 calories per serving to maintain your energy levels during critical situations.

We've found that the best kits include fortified foods packed with essential vitamins and minerals, which become vital when fresh food isn't available. Your kit should cater to various dietary needs, including cholesterol-free and vegetarian options. We recommend choosing lightweight, compact food items that don't compromise on nutritional value.

Pro Tip: Look for foods with at least a five-year shelf life to guarantee you're getting long-lasting nutrition without frequent replacements. This balance of caloric density and nutritional completeness will help sustain you through extended emergency periods.

Portability and Size

Three critical factors shape the effectiveness of your earthquake food kit: portability, dimensions, and weight distribution. When you're selecting a kit, you'll want to focus on lightweight options that you can easily transport during evacuations or relocations.

We've found that compact kits measuring approximately 9.5 x 7.5 x 4 inches offer ideal portability while maintaining enough space for 72 hours of essential supplies. You'll want to verify your kit fits conveniently in common storage spaces, such as your backpack, car trunk, or under your bed.

Pro Tip: Choose food pouches or bars that don't require preparation – they're perfect for grab-and-go situations. When testing various kits, we've discovered that these ready-to-eat options provide the best balance between space efficiency and quick access to nutrition during emergencies.

Cost Vs Quality

When you're weighing the cost against quality of earthquake food kits, understanding the long-term value becomes essential for making an informed decision. While budget-friendly options might seem appealing, they often fall short in nutrition and shelf life.

We've found that premium kits typically offer superior packaging and preservation methods, with vacuum-sealed containers that keep your food fresh longer. Higher-quality options also provide better nutritional content, including 1,200-calorie meal replacement bars with essential vitamins and minerals.

Pro Tip: Don't let initial prices be your only deciding factor. Consider the cost per serving and shelf life – premium kits often prove more economical over time.

Durability of Packaging

The durability of your earthquake food kit's packaging serves as its first line of defense against environmental threats and physical damage. We've found that vacuum-sealed containers offer superior protection while extending shelf life by keeping out air and moisture that could compromise your food's safety.

When selecting your kit, look for packaging that's both leak-proof and water-resistant to guarantee your supplies remain protected, even in challenging conditions. We've tested numerous options and recommend materials that can withstand high temperatures, especially if you're storing your kit in your vehicle or garage. The strongest packages feature tear-resistant construction that prevents punctures and splits during transportation or storage.

Pro Tip: Double-check that all seals are intact and look for reinforced corners, which provide extra protection against impact damage during earthquakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Rotate Emergency Food Supplies in My Earthquake Kit?

Ever wonder how long those emergency supplies actually last? You'll need to rotate most commercially packaged emergency food every 2-5 years, depending on storage conditions and packaging type. Check expiration dates monthly and replace items well before they expire. You'll want to store your supplies in a cool, dry place between 40-70°F. Pro Tip: Create a rotation schedule and label everything with purchase dates for easy tracking.

Can I Store My Earthquake Food Kit in an Outdoor Storage Shed?

No, you shouldn't store your emergency food kit in an outdoor shed. Temperature fluctuations, humidity, and potential pest issues can greatly reduce your food's shelf life and compromise its safety. We've found that indoor storage areas between 50-70°F provide ideal conditions. Keep your kit in a cool, dry place like a basement, pantry, or climate-controlled closet. Pro Tip: If indoor space is limited, consider under-bed storage containers specifically designed for emergency supplies.

Are Emergency Food Rations Safe for People With Common Food Allergies?

In a world where food allergies affect millions, you'll be relieved to know that most emergency food rations are allergen-conscious. You'll find many brands clearly label their products as free from common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and dairy. However, you should carefully check each product's ingredients, as formulations vary between manufacturers. We've tested numerous options and recommend SOS Food Labs and Datrex rations, which offer allergen-free varieties specifically designed for those with sensitivities.

What's the Best Way to Test Emergency Food Before an Actual Disaster?

You'll want to test your emergency food well before disaster strikes. We recommend sampling a few servings from each food type every 6-12 months. Don't open all packages – just test representative samples. Heat and prepare the food exactly as you would during an emergency, using only the tools you've stockpiled. Take notes on taste, preparation time, and water needed. This helps you adjust your supplies and guarantees you're familiar with the process.

How Do Emergency Food Kits Perform in Extreme Temperature Conditions?

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," especially when it comes to storing your emergency food. Most emergency food kits can withstand temperatures between 40-75°F, but you'll notice significant quality loss beyond these ranges. We've found that extreme heat (85°F+) can reduce shelf life by 50% and affect taste, while freezing temperatures can damage packaging and texture. You'll want to store your kits in climate-controlled spaces, ideally in basements or interior closets.