IBHS News Releases

Tampa – Earthquakes can shake things off shelves and topple bookcases, computers and appliances, even if you’re not near the epicenter, as people all along the California coast were reminded yesterday. 

If you live or work where earthquakes are possible, taking simple, non-structural steps now can protect possessions from damage and people from injury. 

The Institute for Business & Home Safety recommends these tips:

• Anchor bookcases and filing cabinets to nearby walls.
• Install latches on drawers and cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling.
• Install ledge barriers on shelves, place heavy items on lower shelves, and secure large, heavy items and breakables directly to shelves to keep them from falling.
• Use closed screw-eyes and wire to securely attach pictures and mirrors to the walls.
• Attach computers and small appliances to desks, tables or countertops.
• Secure ceiling lights, suspended ceilings and other hanging items such as chandeliers and plants to the permanent structure of your house.
• Apply safety film to windows and glass doors.
• Anchor large appliances to walls using safety cables or straps. Lock the rollers of any large appliances or pieces of furniture.
• Secure water heater(s) to nearby walls.
• Fit gas appliances with flexible connections and/or a breakaway gas shut-off device, or install a main gas shut-off device. (Local building codes determine whether you may install flexible connectors yourself or if you need to hire a professional.)

For more information, review the IBHS publications in the Earthquake section of this web site.  To visit the online video gallery for a story detailing some of the precautions outlined above, click here.

IBHS is an initiative of the insurance industry to reduce deaths, injuries, property damage, economic losses and human suffering caused by natural disasters.