Making Your Surroundings Safer 
Simple measures are effective in preventing earthquake-related injuries.

Peggy Peirson, Emergency Services Coordinator, Brenton County, Oragon Emergency Services

Statistically you are more likely to be injured by the contents of your home or office or by falling debris than by collapse of the structure itself in an earthquake in the United States. This does not mean we should ignore structural vulnerabilities, but because non-structural corrective measures are so simple and affordable, it does mean that you can do something now to reduce your risk! And how about preserving your antiques, artwork, china, and computer equipment? Even moderate shaking can do irreparable damage to things of value, to you to say nothing of the injuries that they can cause when they fall or shatter.

Following are some simple and effective injury and damage prevention strategies:

·Strap your hot water heater. Secure it to wall studs with nylon or metal strapping so that it will not topple over in an earthquake and to minimize the chances of a gas line break (fire hazard). Keeping your hot water heater upright after an earthquake can also mean preserving a precious supply of potable water. Strapping kits can be purchased at hardware and building supply stores.

·Bolt down any gas appliances and make sure flexible connections are secure. Fire is a serious secondary hazard following an earthquake.

·Remove or seriously secure large, heavy objects that hang over sitting or sleeping areas. Heavy “eye” screws into studs are much more likely to hold hanging plants and heavy artwork. Make sure the hanging mechanism itself (picture hanger, plant hanger) is strong enough to stay secure as well. Brace and secure overhead light fixtures, items that commonly fall.

·Secure heavy objects that may topple over into wall studs with “L” brackets and 3 inch lag screws. This is particularly important with heavy, unstable items like bookcases, grandfather clocks, entertainment centers.

·Move heavy or breakable objects to lower shelves where they are less likely to injure someone if they are ejected from their storage places.

·Secure heavy, valuable or breakable objects on shelves, counters or desktops with heavy-duty (industrial weight) Velcro™, skid mats specifically designed for the severity of earthquake shaking, or by strapping them down.

·Move beds away from windows and/or have window safety film professionally applied to windows to prevent injury from broken glass shards.

·Cupboard and cabinet latches will contain their contents if they are properly installed and always used. These also work very well for keeping little hands away from dangerous or breakable objects. Look for a latch solution that you can commit to using every time you open and close the cupboard doors – there are many to choose from.

·Secure smaller valuable objects or artwork with a museum wax, gel or putty specifically designed to hold tight when the shaking starts. There are at least three good products that are specifically designed for fine furniture and invisibility. 

Protect your investments and your family.

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