Home Security and Natural Disasters - Earthquake Safety Tips

With an apparent increase in seismic activity lately, more and more people are talking about what to do if an earthquake should hit where they live. While some parts of the United States are more likely to be confronted with blizzards or hurricanes, it is important for countless other Americans to be ready. And unlike other disasters, where preparedness means one thing, surviving an earthquake and being prepared is a whole other scenario.

First and foremost, it is important to determine whether or not you live in a part of the country where earthquakes have been known to cause trouble. Obviously, citizens residing in California are far more likely to experience a quake than, say, those in Georgia, but this doesn't mean it isn't important to be prepared. While earthquake safety isn't a huge part of home security for Floridians, maps show that earthquakes have hit at one time or another in practically every state. There's no telling where the next one may be, so being alert is the best bet.

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For those who have more of a reason to prepare, the first thing to do is consider how your house is arranged. If you have heavy bookshelves with lots of books across the room from your bed, for example, consider moving it to another part of the house. It is important to keep large, unwieldy objects away from the space where you sleep. Since earthquakes can strike at any time of the day, being in a prone position--like sleeping in a bed--is a recipe for disaster if there is furniture that can cause you harm. For the sake of your safety and home security, try to make sure larger pieces of furniture are not within falling distance of your bed.

There are a number of other ways you can prepare for an earthquake. Secure other heavy appliances to the floor, and try to keep particularly heavy objects and breakable objects at ground level and away from places you might be sitting. For example, don't hang the heaviest photograph you own over a couch where people might be sitting, but rather, choose a part of the hallway where, if an earthquake strikes, it is not liable to hit someone and cause physical trouble.

Another huge part of home security and earthquake safety is having your home well-stocked in case you end up having to stay there for an extended period of time without knowing ahead of time. Try to keep a couple day's supply of water and nonperishable food around, along with a flashlight and some batteries. It is also important to try and keep batteries and a battery-powered radio so that you can be up to date on any news that might be broadcast after things like phone lines and television lines are down. Staying informed is one of the secrets to surviving any sort of natural disaster.

During the actual earthquake, there are a number of safety tips to remember. Always stay indoors, or get indoors immediately. Try to move to the strongest, safest place in your house. Generally, this is far away from heavy objects, chimneys, and windows. Brace yourself and try to avoid any objects or debris. If you are outside, try to move away from any power lines and get away from buildings and trees that might fall down. After all, home safety is not just about your home during a natural disaster, but also the surrounding area of your yard and neighborhood.

Home Security and Natural Disasters - Earthquake Safety Tips