Prepare your home for earthquake dangers

The recent Seattle earthquake is another reminder for homeowners to protect themselves and their property during an earthquake. The Institute for Business and Home Safety offers the following tips:

• Anchor bookcases and filing cabinets to nearby walls
• Install latches on drawers and cabinet doors to keep contents from falling out.
• Install ledge barriers on shelves, place heavy items on lower shelves and secure large, heavy items to shelves.
• Use closed screw eyes and wire to attach items to the walls.
• Secure ceiling lights, suspended ceilings and hanging items, such as chandeliers.
• Fit all gas appliances with flexible connections and/or a breakaway gas shut-off device, or install a main gas shut-off device.

The booklet “Protect Your Home Against Earthquake Damage” is available by calling (888) 286-2624.