How to Prepare Your Home for Earthquakes

If you live in an earthquake prone area preparing and protecting your home in advance is an extremely good idea. Most of the preparations are simple and not very expensive. You may be able to save yourself a lot of clean up and expensive in the event of an earthquake.

Kitchen:

Simple steps can be taken in the kitchen area to greatly reduce your loss and increase your safety. Locking mechanisms are readily available at most home supply stores and are relatively easy to install. Adding these locks to upper cabinets that contain glassware or breakable dishes will greatly reduce the chance of these items being knocked out during an earthquake. Keeping the items contained in the cabinets will also prevent broken glass from being underfoot. Even simple child proofing locks will work. Always remember to open all cabinets carefully after an earthquake as items may be wedged against the door.

Chain devices are available to install on large and heavy appliances to prevent them from falling or moving during an earthquake. Adding these will protect both the appliance and anyone that may be caught near them during an earthquake. If you have gas appliances check the gas lines themselves on a regular basis. Lines that show signs of wear should be replaced to prevent them from breaking. Lines to gas appliances should never be too tight. Always allow for some flexibility in the event that the appliance does shift.

Lighting:

Overhead lighting should be well anchored to the ceiling. Special anchoring devices are available and light fixtures should be well set into solid wood. Chandeliers should be installed so they will not swing into a wall or furniture. Lighting fixtures should have a cover to prevent glass from falling directly onto the floor. Table lamps should be weighted at the bottom and not be top heavy.

Living room and bedroom:

Pictures that hang on the wall are one of the most common items to fall in an earthquake. Special anchoring devices are available to provide a solid attachment for any hanging pictures or art. This is especially important for heavy pieces and any mirrors that may be on walls.

Large furniture items like entertainment centers and headboard units should also be anchored to the wall or floor if at all possible. While bedroom mirrors installed in headboards may be attractive they are not something that you want to have fall on you during an earthquake.

Stairwells, door frames and sturdy tables are good locations to seek shelter during an earthquake. Be sure that access to these locations is clear and there are no large or loose objects overhead. A little planning in advance can go a long way to protect you and your family during an earthquake.