PEARL – February 1, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and local emergency management offices encourage residents to check for potential hazards in their homes in case of an earthquake.
By identifying potential hazards ahead of time homeowners and renters can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake and minimize damage to their property. Here are some basic suggestions to minimize damage to property during seismic events:
Check for Hazards in the Home
- Fasten shelves securely to walls.
- Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
- Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.
- Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds, couches, and anywhere peoplesit.
- Brace overhead light fixtures.
- Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections.
- These are potential fire risks. Secure a water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and bolting it to the floor.
- Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations.
- Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.
- Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latchesand on bottom shelves in an area outside the home’s living space.
Additional Ways to Plan
- Ahead Identify safe places indoors and outdoors.
- Educate yourself and family members.
- Have disaster supplies on hand.
- Develop an emergency communication plan.
Governor Phil Bryant declared this week as Earthquake Awareness Week in Mississippi to raise resident’s awareness to the threat of seismic activity in our state.
For information on preparing an all-hazards disaster preparedness kit and tips for protecting your property against earthquakes, visit MEMA online at www.msema.org. Additional information is available from CUSEC at www.cusec.org, USGS at www.usgs.gov and from the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov.
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“Disaster Preparedness Saves Lives and Property”
Visit us online at www.msema.org
