How to Secure Furniture for an Earthquake

Falling objects represent a great danger during an earthquake. Heavy furniture and glass knickknacks can cause serious bodily injury. Unsecured appliances can spark fires. Securing furniture is a fundamental step in earthquake safety. This article will tell you what to secure and how to secure it.

Things You'll Need

• Brackets or nylon fasteners for free-standing furniture
• Shelf guardrails or fishing line
• Cable, wire or strapping for appliances
• Flexible water and gas attachments for appliances

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Instructions

• 1

  Anchor top-heavy free-standing furniture, like bookcases and entertainment centers, to the wall with "L" brackets, corner brackets or nylon fasteners. This will prevent them from toppling over.

• 2

  Prevent objects from sliding off shelves by attaching guardrails to shelves or by stringing nearly-invisible fishing line across the shelf opening. Put large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

• 3

  Fasten cabinet doors with sliding bolts or childproof latches to prevent them from popping open. These furniture features are often overlooked when inspecting a home for earthquake safety.

• 4

  Secure appliances with metal cables, wires or strapping. Install flexible water and gas attachments to appliances to prevent leakage during an earthquake and reduce the risk of fire. Window air conditions should be properly braced. Place blocks in front of wheeled appliances to prevent rolling during an earthquake.