In an earthquake, furniture, appliances and ornaments within your home can become a threat to your personal safety.
Taking a few simple steps to secure these items could lessen the chance of physical injury in a high magnitude earthquake. The key to creating a safer home is to secure as many items as possible, so the risk of items falling on you are minimised.
Here’s our tips on how to prepare your home for a possible earthquake….
Your home’s interior
- Secure tall items-such as bookcases, shelving units or drawers-to wall studs
- Put non-slip mats, rubber suction cups or Velcro under smaller objects (including appliances)
- Make sure picture or mirror hooks are pressed securely closed
- Hot water cylinders should be secured to the wall using metal strapping
- Freestanding gas or wood burners should be secured to the hearth
- Use flexible gas fittings on gas appliances
- Retrain from storing heavy items up high
- BluTack is ideal for securing ornaments
- Childproof latches on cupboard doors will stop items from flying out in an earthquake
- Use book shelf wires to minimise the chance of books flying off shelving
Your home’s exterior
- Ensure your house is securely attached to its foundations
- Galvanised metal bands will help secure your chimney in an earthquake
- Ensure you have the right insurance cover for your home and content
By following these simple tips you can ensure that your family is well protected should the threat of a possible natural disaster occur.