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20 things to do to prepare before the next earthquake hits Southern California
Items that fell of a shelf in the Bingham home in Fullerton Friday evening near the intersection of N Gilbert St and Rosecrans on March 28, 2014.
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Stuart Palley/KPCC
)
Friday's 5.1-magnitude earthquake, and the smaller one in Encino last week, served as a reminder that we live in a seismically active region. Here are 20 suggestions from the U.S. Geological Survey on how to prepare for the next quake.
- Hang plants in lightweight pots with closed hooks.
- Install strong latches on kitchen cabinets.
- Use flexible connections where gas lines meet appliances.
- Secure valuable electronics items such as computers and televisions.
- Keep breakables in low or secure cabinets with latches.
- Hang mirrors and pictures on closed hooks.
- Keep heavy, unstable objects away from doors and exit routes.
- Place bed away from windows or items that may fall.
- Secure knick knacks and other small valuables with museum putty.
- Brace overhead light fixtures.
- Place only light weight or soft items over bed.
- Secure top-heavy furniture to wall studs.
- Secure water heater with metal straps attached to wall studs.
- Store an ABC-type fire extinguisher in easily accessible location.
- Keep several flashlights in easily accessible places around the house.
- Keep a wrench or turn-off tool in water proof wrap near gas meter.
- Know the location of your main fuse box or circuit breaker.
- Keep slippers and gloves next to beds.
- Keep an emergency backpack with copies of important documents near the door to grab and go.
- Store emergency food and water supplies in a dry, accessible area. Include a first aid kit, extra cash, portable radio, extra batteries, medications and other necessary supplies.
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