Earthquake Preparedness: Protecting Your Home and Belongings

You can take steps to secure the items in your home so that both you and your possessions remain safe during an earthquake. These guidelines follow the recommendations of the Governor of California's Office of Emergency Services.

Things You'll Need

• Childproof Cabinet Latches
• Microcrystalline Wax
• Nondrying Putty Wax
• Nylon Straps
• Safety Glass
• Cables
• Safety Straps
• Shatter-resistant Window Film
• Hook And Eye Latches
• Closed Hooks

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Instructions

• 1

  Secure items on tables or counters. For units such as television sets, computers, and lamps, use buckles and safety straps that can be attached to tabletops and allow for easy movement when needed.

• 2

  Secure glass, chinaware, and pottery using nondrying putty or microcrystalline wax.

• 3

  Lock kitchen cabinet doors with childproof latches or hook-and-eye closures.

• 4

  Anchor refrigerator to wall.

• 5

  Use flexible fasteners, such as nylon straps, to anchor tops of heavy furniture to the stud (not plasterboard) of a wall.

• 6

  Cover windows with shatter-resistant film, or replace with safety glass.

• 7

  Secure overhead objects. Anchor hanging objects, such as lights and fans, with a cable bolted to ceiling joist. Hang framed pictures from closed hooks.