Preparing Your Home and Property for an Earthquake: 6 Essential Tips
Living in an area prone to earthquakes demands more than just casual awareness; it requires proactive steps to ensure the safety of your home and family. Earthquakes strike without warning, turning everyday objects into potential hazards. By taking some straightforward yet critical measures, you can significantly reduce the risks and protect your loved ones and property. And since a claim may still be necessary, it is essential to understand the claims process from reporting to settlement.
At GeoVera, we encourage your insureds to take these precautions to reduce the severity of potential earthquake damage.
Lock Your Cabinets
Unsecured cabinets can swing open during an earthquake, causing contents to fall out and potentially injure someone or break valuable items. Installing latches on your cabinet doors is an easy and effective way to keep everything securely inside.
Keep a Clear Path to the Exits
In an earthquake, a quick and unobstructed escape is crucial. Ensure that the paths to all exits are clear of any obstacles. Regularly check these paths and keep them free from clutter. This not only helps in case of an emergency but also promotes a more organized and safer living space.
Know How to Protect Yourself
Understanding how to protect yourself during an earthquake is vital. Teach your family the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method. Practice earthquake drills periodically so everyone knows what to do. Identify safe spots in each room, like under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall, away from windows and heavy objects that might topple.
Relocate or Anchor Any Large/Heavy Objects
Tall, heavy furniture, like bookcases, dressers, and shelving units, should be securely anchored to the walls. This prevents them from falling over during an earthquake, which could cause injury or block escape routes. Consider relocating heavy objects to lower shelves and secure items like TVs and computer monitors.
Secure Water Fixtures and Any Flammable or Toxic Substances
Water heaters, gas fixtures, and other utilities should be anchored and fitted with flexible connectors to prevent breaks and leaks. Flammable or toxic substances, such as cleaning supplies or paint, should be stored in a secure, low area where they cannot spill and create additional hazards.
Secure Any Fixtures or Electronics That Can Hurt Someone, Cause Damage, or Break
Beyond the larger pieces of furniture, pay attention to smaller fixtures and electronics. Secure items like picture frames, mirrors, and lamps. Use cord organizers to prevent tripping over cables during an evacuation. Additionally, consider using safety film on windows to prevent shattering.
Preparing your home for an earthquake involves a series of thoughtful and deliberate actions. While it may initially seem overwhelming, taking these steps can immensely reduce the risks and provide peace of mind. Remember, safety is not just about reacting in the moment of crisis but about being prepared long before it arrives. Part of that preparation is having the right insurance in place. In fact, are you aware that the standard Homeowners policy does not typically cover earthquake damage?
GeoVera is the premier stand-alone provider of residential earthquake insurance and can assist in filling the earthquake coverage gap. Quote each of your clients to get the best policy for their needs.
