How to Earthquake-Proof Your Home
Practical steps to retrofit and secure your home against earthquake damage. Protect your family and reduce property damage.
Secure Heavy Furniture
Unsecured furniture is one of the biggest injury risks during an earthquake.
- •Bolt bookshelves and cabinets to wall studs
- •Use furniture straps for TVs and monitors
- •Install latches on cabinet doors
- •Move heavy items to lower shelves
- •Secure water heater with straps
Structural Improvements
Consider professional retrofitting for older homes.
- •Bolt the house to its foundation (cripple wall bracing)
- •Reinforce unreinforced masonry (URM) walls
- •Add plywood sheathing to cripple walls
- •Install flexible gas line connections
- •Brace chimneys
Inside the Home
Simple changes can significantly reduce earthquake hazards.
- •Use earthquake putty or museum wax for breakables
- •Hang pictures and mirrors with closed hooks
- •Install safety film on large windows
- •Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity
- •Keep shoes and a flashlight beside each bed