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Home insurance does not typically cover the costs of earthquake damage, which can potentially force a homeowner to be responsible for hundreds or thousands of dollars’ worth of repairs. While earthquakes may seem like something only Californians need to worry about, it's important to understand that Ohio is also a site of reoccurring seismic activity. In addition to earthquake and home insurance, there are a few further ways Ohioans can safeguard their homes from seismic damage.

How to Protect Your Home From an Earthquake

1. Secure Furniture, Electronics, & Fragile Items

Bookshelves, entertainment centers, and dressers can be anchored to the studs in a wall to better hold them in place should a quake strike. Safety straps are both helpful and affordable, and they can be used to secure heavy electronics, like flatscreen televisions and computers. If you have fragile items displayed on shelves, apply museum putty to the bottom of each one to affix them to the surface.

2. Learn How to Shut Off Utilities

home insuranceDuring an earthquake, electrical and gas lines can break, which increases the risk for fires and toxic chemical leaks. Every homeowner should know how to shut off their utilities as soon as the shaking has stopped.

Keep a wrench easily accessible so you can quickly turn off valves. If you aren't certain how to shut off the electric or gas supply, contact your utility company.

3. Watch Where You Place Heavy Wall Hangings

Take a walk through your home and check the location of all heavy wall hangings like large, framed artwork and mirrors. These items should never be positioned over beds, sofas, or chairs, as they can easily fall off the wall and cause injury during a quake.

Instead, hang heavier pieces in spots where they will only fall to the floor if they are shaken loose. Secure them with multiple nails or screws for added safety.

 

Earthquake coverage, in addition to your home insurance plan, will be crucial if your home suffers damage. Lighthouse Agency is here to help. Since 1996, they have been serving clients throughout the Fairfield, OH, region. In addition to earthquake and home insurance, they offer rental, business, vehicle, health, and life insurance plans, as well as Medicare supplements and Medigap coverage. Call (513) 860-9100 or visit them online to request a quote.

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