SECURE HOUSEHOLD ITEMS AND EQUIPMENT BEFORE THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE STRIKES
Earthquakes strike without warning, and their impact can be devastating. While we often think about structural integrity and personal safety, securing furniture, breakables, electronics, and appliances is equally important. These household items can become serious hazards during a quake, endangering lives and causing significant damage. Here’s why securing them should be part of your earthquake preparedness plan.
Why Secure Furniture, Electronics, and Appliances?
Prevent Injuries: During an earthquake, heavy furniture like bookcases, wardrobes, and cabinets can topple over. TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances can slide or fall, posing serious injury risks to anyone nearby.
Protect Property: Falling or sliding electronics and appliances can sustain costly damage. By anchoring these items, you reduce the likelihood of replacement or expensive repairs after an earthquake.
Maintain Essential Utilities: Appliances like refrigerators, stoves, and water heaters are vital. If they are damaged or disconnected, they can cause further harm, such as gas leaks, water spills, or electrical fires.
Ensure Emergency Access: Fallen furniture can block doorways and pathways, hindering evacuation efforts or access for emergency responders.
How to Secure Household Items
Anchor Furniture and Wall Hangings: Use brackets or straps to attach tall furniture, large artwork, and mirrors to wall studs.
Stabilize Electronics: Secure TVs and monitors with straps or safety mounts. Use non-slip pads for smaller devices.
Secure Appliances: Anchor large appliances like refrigerators and water heaters to the wall. Use flexible connectors for gas and water lines to prevent breakage.
Organize Cabinets: Install latches on cabinets to keep doors closed and prevent items from falling out during shaking.
Display Collectibles Wisely: Use museum putty to stick fragile collectibles to shelves and avoid placing heavy items on high shelves.
A Small Investment for Big Protection
Securing furniture, breakables, electronics, and appliances is a relatively simple and affordable measure that can save lives, protect your property, and minimize post-earthquake recovery efforts. By taking proactive steps now, you ensure a safer environment for yourself and your family when the ground begins to shake. Remember, preparation is key to resilience.
