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Bolt bookcases, china
cabinets, and other tall furniture to wall studs. Brace or anchor high or
top-heavy objects. During an earthquake, these items can fall over,
causing damage or injury.
Secure items that might fall
(televisions, books, computers, etc.). Falling items can cause damage or
injury.
Install strong latches or
bolts on cabinets. The contents of cabinets can shift during the shaking
of an earthquake. Latches will prevent cabinets from flying open and
contents from falling out.
Move large or heavy objects
and fragile items (glass or china) to lower shelves. There will be less
damage and less chance of injury if these items are on lower shelves.
Store breakable items such as
bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.
Latches will help keep contents of cabinets inside.
Store weed killers,
pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches,
on bottom shelves. Chemical products will be less likely to create
hazardous situations from lower, confined locations.
Hang heavy items, such as
pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches, and anywhere people sit.
Earthquakes can knock things off walls, causing damage or injury.
Brace overhead light
fixtures. During earthquakes, overhead light fixtures are the most
common items to fall, causing damage or injury.
Strap the water heater to
wall studs. The water heater may be your best source of drinkable water
following an earthquake. Protect it from damage and leaks.
Bolt down any gas appliances.
After an earthquake, broken gas lines frequently create fire hazards.
Install flexible pipe
fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings will be less
likely to break.
Repair any deep cracks in
ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural
defects. Earthquakes can turn cracks into ruptures and make smaller
problems bigger.
Check to see if your house is
bolted to its foundation. Homes bolted to their foundations are less
likely to be severely damaged during earthquakes. Homes that are not bolted
have been known to slide off their foundations, and many have been destroyed
because they are uninhabitable.
Consider having your building evaluated by
a professional structural design engineer. Ask about home repair and
strengthening tips for exterior features, such as porches, front and back
decks, sliding glass doors, canopies, carports, and garage doors. Learn
about additional ways you can protect your home. A professional can give you
advice on how to reduce potential damage.
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