Although you cannot prevent an earthquake, you can get ready for it.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there are more than 3,000 earthquakes per year worldwide that are a magnitude 5.0 or stronger, which is strong enough to cause widespread damage. Hundreds of thousands of smaller earthquakes mostly go undetected. Even a low-magnitude earthquake can damage your home. Simple steps can make your home less likely to be damaged during an earthquake. Most, too, can be done in a weekend.
Secure Your Water Heater
An upended hot water tank causes extensive water damage and increases risk of fire. Secure your water heater to the wall using long metal straps called retrofit water heater brackets, the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, advises. Attach one strap near the top and one at the bottom of the heater. Secure the straps to studs in the wall. If your water tank is gas-powered, have a flexible gas supply line instead of a rigid one that can snap during the movement of an earthquake.
Anchor Large Furniture
Attach large bookcases, china cabinets, desks and filing cabinets to the wall, FEMA suggests. Use anchor brackets screwed directly into wall studs to keep this furniture from tipping, damaging the contents and landing on other items below. Attach computers and other small appliances to desks and countertops.
Prevent Fires
The threat of fire is very real after an earthquake. Homes with gas appliances are especially at risk. Check your gas lines regularly for leaks and cracks. Use only flexible connections for all gas lines, the City of Pasadena, California, states. Brace propane tanks and gas cylinders using metal brackets or long straps. Store all chemicals and flammable products on low shelves and cabinets with latched doors. Secure your stove to the wall using an L-bracket on the back.
Additional Small Fixes
Install latches on cabinet doors, drawers and cupboards to keep them from opening and spilling their contents. Move heavy objects to lower shelves with latched doors. Hang all pictures and mirrors with a hook drilled into a wall stud and close the hook to secure. Mount a shelf guard or a small piece of wood strip along the front edge of shelves to keep items from sliding off. Confirm that all ceiling fans and lighting fixtures are mounted to ceiling joists, according to the City of Pasadena. Add additional bracing where needed. Hang heavy mirrors and pictures away from beds and sitting areas.
Tags: City Pasadena, into wall, latched doors, wall using, water heater, water tank, with latched
