Identify Potential Hazards in Your Home
- Remove heavy objects from above beds and sofas
- Hang mirrors, pictures and other objects from closed hooks
- Tall, top-heavy furniture such as bookcases and entertainment centers should be secured to a wall stud using flexible-mount fasteners, such as nylon straps, allowing independent movement from the wall
- Install excess-flow gas shut-off valves for individual appliances, which will stop gas flow in case of a catastrophic leak
- Secure refrigerators and other major appliances to walls using earthquake appliance straps
- Secure cabinet doors, especially those overhead, using latches designed for child proofing or earthquake or boat safety
- Replace rigid gas connections to water heaters, stoves and dryers and other gas appliances with flexible corrugated stainless-steel gas connections. Make sure your water heater is anchored to a wall or are secured with metal straps and leg screws. Kits are available at hardware stores
- Move flammable or hazardous materials to low areas that are secure
|
Create a Disaster Preparedness Plan
- Keep shoes and a flashlight next to each person's bed
- Identify safe spots in your home such as under a sturdy desk or table
- Locate a place to meet outside your home after the shaking stops
- Establish an out-of-area contact person who can be called by everyone in your household to relay information
- Provide all family members with a list of important contact information
- Be sure all family members know the location of the disaster kit
- Be sure all smoke alarms are working
|
