During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. However, there are simple steps you can take to make your home safer. Inspect each room to identify potential hazards - bookshelves that could tip over in an earthquake and block exits or heavy objects that could fall and cause injury.
- Install smoke detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every 6 months
- Move beds away from windows, chimneys, or other areas that might pose a danger
- Move mirrors and heavy pictures away from couches or places where people sit
- Clear hallways and exits for easy evacuation
- Store heavy items on the lowest shelves
- Keep ABC-type fire extinguishers on each level and know how and when to use them
- Strap down your water heater and fit all gas appliances with a flexible gas supply line
- Install a seismic shut-off valve on gas lines
- Store flammable or highly reactive chemicals (such as bleach, ammonia, and paint thinners) securely and separately from each other
- Secure pictures and wall hangings and use restraints to secure heavy items such as bookcases and file cabinets
- Know how and when to switch off your utilities
- Ensure that all window safety bars have emergency releases
- Be sure your home number is visible from the street so emergency vehicles can find you