by Samantha Overmyer

Created on: January 16, 2011   Last Updated: January 19, 2011

During an earthquake things are falling all over and it is a major safety hazard. Most deaths in an earthquake occur by falling objects. To prevent this there are certain things to stay away from and certain things in the home that should be strapped down at all times.  Here is a list of the ten most dangerous household items in an earthquake.

Large furniture

Book cases, tall dressers, wardrobes, TV stands, and pantry cabinets all should be strapped to the wall using furniture wall straps. When an earthquake occurs there isn't much time to avoid large falling furniture objects. It may fall and strike someone in the head which can kill them. A book case would bury a person so that they couldn't get out to get help if they survived it.

Pots/pans

Never keep pots and pans on a high shelf. During an earthquake they can fall and cause a severe head injury. Keeping them underneath the counter cabinets is best to avoid these incredibly heavy objects.

Glass objects

Plates, cups, bowls, vases, knick knacks, mirrors, and pictures can fall off of shelves and walls. In the kitchen the glass dishes should be stored in wooden cupboards with hooks or latches. Whenever you pull out a plate, close the cabinet and re-latch it so that you're always prepared for a shake. Shelves should have a little trim around the edge to stop things from shaking off of it. Inexpensive hooks can be bought to keep mirrors and pictures bolted down to the wall.

Light fixtures

It is best to avoid light fixtures during an earthquake. They could come straight down on top of a person. Most light fixtures are in the center of the room, so moving away from the center could prevent serious injury.

Tools/equipment

Being in the garage during an earthquake is a very dangerous place to be. Everything from bicycles on a ceiling rack, to tool racks, to saws could cause major harm. If ever you feel an earthquake, even the smallest shake, it would be a good precaution in the garage to jump inside your vehicle putting your head down by the floor while using your arms to shield your head. As long as nothing crashes through the car window it is safer inside. The shocks from the car will take most of the vibration and allow for a quicker reaction time.

Standing fans/lamps

Standing fans and lamps will tip over in an earthquake. Finding a way to strap them down to the wall or floor could prevent this from happening.

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