You can't prevent an earthquake, but you can be prepared to avoid injury and be prepared to minimize the damage to your home.
Go through your home, imagining what could happen to each part of it if it were shaken violently. For those living in a condo or apartment building, you may experience more sway and less vibration than in a single-storey building.
Work with your building or strata corporation manager to help quake-proof your home.
Seek advice from professionals (insurance, engineers and architects) if you are unsure what to do.
Preparing Your HOUSE for an EARTHQUAKE!
Previous Earthquakes have proven that these items need attention:
* Check for home hazards; is the house bolted to its foundation? Are the walls braced? Chimney weak? Are roof tiles loose?
Make necessary repairs now!
* Tie down your water heater and other appliances that could break gas or water lines if they topple.
* Purchase a good GAS wrench to shut off your gas. (see below)
* Secure top-heavy furniture like shelving units and armoires to prevent tipping. Keep heavy items on lower shelves.
* Fix mirrors and other hanging objects so they won't fall off hooks.
* Locate beds away from chimneys, windows, heavy pictures, etc. Closed curtains will help keep broken window glass off nearby occupied beds.
* Put anti-skid pads under TVs, VCRs, computer and small appliances.
* Store valuable documents and special small keepsakes in a fire-resistant place.
* Keep sturdy shoes and out door clothing handy.
* Use child-proof or safety latches on cupboards to stop contents from spilling out.
