Jodi Summers = Industrial Real Estate

EARTHQUAKE PERSONAL SAFETY + BUILDING SAFETY

January 23, 2012 on 12:18 am | In Fascinating Information, Problem Solving, Uncategorized, world | No Comments

Edited by Jodi Summers

Earthquake Safety for You + Yours

Doorways are no stronger than any other part of the structure. During an earthquake, get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on. This will provide some protection from falling objects that can injure you during an earthquake.
Become aware of fire evacuation and earthquake plans for all of the buildings you occupy regularly. Be sure your tenants know escape routes.
Pick safe places in each room of your home, workplace and/or school. A safe place could be under a piece of furniture or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could topple over.
- Practice drop, cover and hold on in each safe place. If you do not have sturdy furniture to hold on to, sit on the floor next to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.

Keep a flashlight and sturdy shoes by each person’s bed.

Earthquake Safety for Your Property + Fixtures

Make sure your property is securely anchored to its foundation.
Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs.
Bolt bookcases, china cabinets and other tall furniture to wall studs.
Hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches and anywhere people sleep or sit.
Brace overhead light fixtures.
Install strong latches or bolts on cabinets.
Large or heavy items should be closest to the floor.
Learn how to shut off the gas valves on your properties and keep a wrench handy for that purpose.
Keep and maintain an emergency supplies kit in an easy-to-access location.

Properties at Increased Risk

• Mobile homes and homes not attached to their foundations are at particular risk during an earthquake.

• Buildings with foundations resting on landfill and other unstable soils are at increased risk of damage.

• Contact your local emergency management office, local American Red Cross chapter, state geological survey or department of natural resources for more details.