How to Reduce Earthquake Hazards

In theory, the ground is not supposed to move--but sometimes it does, especially for those areas near active fault lines. With proper planning an individual can minimize the damage and injury risks by reducing earthquake hazards in the home.

Things You'll Need

• Eyebolts
• Wire
• Wood screws
• Lag screws
• Metal brackets
• Metal latches
• Screwdriver
• Special securing putty

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Instructions

• 1

  Attach all computers and televisions to a wall or table. You can drill into the casing of a television or computer and then use wire or a bungee cord to secure the appliance to a wall or sturdy table.

• 2

  Embed an eyebolt into the wood stud in a wall and connect any wall hangings or mirrors with a wire to these eyebolts. This prevents any painting or the like from falling off the wall during an earthquake.

• 3

  Purchase metal brackets to secure any bookcases to the walls. You can use a "Z" clip bracket or an exterior or interior angled bracket. Use wood screws to secure the brackets to the bookcases and lag screws to attach the bracket to the wall. To keep items secure on the shelves install wire or metal guardrails on the shelves.

• 4

  Install strong metal latches with locks on the outside of all of the cabinet doors in the house. Be certain to put secure latches with locks on any cabinets that contain bleach or ammonia.

• 5

  Secure any plants or vases to the object they are resting on. Some stores sell putty that will in essence glue these objects down but only leave a minimal stain and are easy to remove with an included solution.