How to earthquake-proof your home.

1. Understand your risk.

Do you live in an earthquake-prone area? The Federal Emergency Management Agency has an Earthquake Hazards Map that reflects the likelihood an area may experience earthquake shaking. Use it to understand how often earthquakes occur in your area.

But remember this: An earthquake can strike anywhere, anytime. So no matter where you live, it pays to be prepared. 

Related: Do I need earthquake insurance?

2. Identify structural weak points.

Evaluate your home to determine any potential structural risks. The best way to do that is to hire a pro.

Look for a qualified home inspector who understands local building codes and offers seismic home assessments as part of their services. You can also ask a licensed contractor, engineer or architect to evaluate your home's vulnerabilities and structural risks.

2. Strengthen your home’s structural elements.

Depending on its age, your home's structure may need a little work. For example, your foundation may need to be supported with reinforced concrete. Or, you may need to repair foundation cracks.

Some homes may also have frames and “cripple walls" that lack the proper bolting or bracing. You might also need to address repairs and improvements to your roof, chimney, and garage. 

In these situations, a seismic retrofit may be the best option. Contact foundation or framing contractors near you for specific projects. Or, you may want to ask a structural engineer or architect to make the improvements for you.

3. Move furniture and heavy objects.

Take a look at the layout of all of your rooms. If you think your dresser, bookcase, and other heavy objects are too close to beds and couches, move them. This can help prevent bodily injury if an earthquake causes any of these items to topple over.

You should also consider moving heavy vases, lamps, statues, frames, etc., currently sitting on your high shelves to lower shelves. This can help prevent them from shattering during an earthquake.

If you need help moving and rearranging heavy furniture, you can hire handymen or  furniture movers near you.

4. Secure furniture, cabinets, and large appliances. 

During an earthquake, interior damage can occur due to heavy objects falling and moving around. Ensure these items are all secured by doing the following:

• Use straps and wall studs to secure tall furniture, like bookcases, hutches, refrigerators, and dressers.
• Attach your TV to furniture (with straps) or securely mount it to a wall. A TV mounting pro can tackle this task for you.
• Install latches on your drawers and cabinet doors. This can help prevent heavy items from falling out and damaging your floors.
• Secure your water heater by using anchor bolts, metal straps, wall studs, and screws. You can ask a local handyman or plumber to help you with this task.

5. Protect your plumbing with flexible connections.

When securing your appliances that connect to your plumbing, make sure they have flexible (not rigid) connections. Flexible connections are better equipped to withstand an earthquake than rigid pipes, which can easily break.

Ask a plumber if you should make the switch to flexible connections on your water heater, dishwasher, furnace, washer/dryer, stove, and other appliances.

6. Use adhesives to keep smaller objects in place.

One of the most devastating consequences of an earthquake is damage to rare, personal objects.

If you have special art pieces, collectibles, dishes, or antiques elevated in a cabinet or on a shelf, use adhesives to keep them in place. You should also move them to a lower shelf, especially if they're fragile.

7. Choose the appropriate hooks for hanging objects.

You probably have photos, mirrors, art, and other objects hanging on your walls. Protect these items from falling, breaking, and damaging your floors by using hooks that can withstand the object's weight. You may also want to add adhesives and "earthquake putty" for extra protection.

8. Upgrade or reinforce glass windows and doors. 

Shattered and broken glass can also occur during an earthquake. Consider upgrading and reinforcing your windows and doors with laminated or shatter-resistant alternatives. However, it's best to consult a structural engineer to help you make the best decision for these areas of your home.

9. Locate your shut-off valves.

Every homeowner should know how to locate the water and gas shut-off valves. Usually, you can find these valves near the front or side of your house. They may also be near the gas or water meter, furnace, or water heater.

Why is this step important? You'll want to shut off the water quickly in the event that your home floods during or after an earthquake. And if you notice your gas line is leaking after an earthquake, you need to shut it off ASAP. Contact your local authorities immediately.

Related: What do I do if my house floods? How to prepare and repair.

10. Review your yard.

Lastly, don't forget about your yard. Consider working with a structural engineer or landscape architect. They can help you determine if you need to make major changes to your outdoor spaces.

However, there are some things you can decide on your own. For example, consider:

• Trimming (or removing) dying trees and branches.
• Adding a retaining wall in areas where there's a slope to prevent dirt and soil from sliding.
• Using straps, weights, or earthquake gel/glue to keep patio furniture in place.

Related: How to prepare your home for a hurricane.