Let’s discuss how to prepare your home for an earthquake. To understand what actions to take, it’s crucial to identify potential hazards within your home during seismic activity.

While walls may not collapse, heavy furniture, objects on upper shelves, mirrors, paintings, and household appliances can pose a danger by falling or breaking. Such items could cause injuries and wounds, making it essential to assess and address potential risks.

Inspect your home for the most hazardous areas. If possible, rearrange furniture, ensuring that, for example, the bed is not near a window, as shattered glass could cause severe injuries while on the bed. Additionally, if a fallen closet blocks the exit, consider relocating heavy objects from upper shelves to a lower position, ensuring they are below the head level of the smallest family member. Secure heavy items to walls using screws or fastening straps to eliminate potential dangers.

Identify the safest places within your home in advance.

These include:

– Inside corners at load-bearing walls.

– Openings in load-bearing internal walls.

– Areas near columns and under the beams of the frame.

– Under a sturdy desk or table.

– Next to a stable chair, sofa, or bed.

Learn to reach a safe place quickly and assume the correct position. Identify the safest spots for taking cover and wait until the seismic activity subsides. Being prepared and knowing where to find safety within your home can significantly reduce the risks associated with an earthquake.