Reduce risks at home
You can reduce the risk of damage to your property and injury by taking a few simple and inexpensive steps:
- Fasten bookshelves securely to walls.
- Secure storage tank type water heaters by strapping them to the wall and bolting to the floor.
- Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds, couches, and anywhere people sit.
- Check the condition of your brick chimney if you have one. If it is not used consider taking it down. If it is used consider replacing it with a metal flue for the portion above the roof.
- Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom shelves.
- Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
- Ensure overhead lighting is well fixed in place.
- Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections, these are potential fire risks.
- Repair cracks in walls and get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects in your home.
Reduce risks for business
Businesses across South Australia are at risk from natural hazards including earthquake.
Read Preparing a business continuity plan and download a checklist from the section on running a business.
More information
Other websites
Earthquake Safety Checklist (FEMA 526)
Earthquake Safety Guide for Homeowners (FEMA 530)
Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country
New Zealand's Earthquake Commission - to see the effects of an earthquake on the inside of a home
US Earthquake Country Alliance - to see the effects of an earthquake on the inside of a home