Earthquake Hazards Materials
Gas Water Heater Bracing
| Materials Needed | Comments |
|---|---|
| Metal strapping (plumber's) tape | Encircle the gas water heater with metal tape. |
| Nut and bolt | Secure the metal strapping into a tight circle. |
| 1/2" metal electrical conduit tube | Cut two pieces, each about two feet long. Flatten the ends with a hammer; drill holes on flattened ends. |
| 5/16" x 3" lag bolts with washers | Connect ends of conduit to studs in wall. |
| Nuts and bolts | Attach the other ends of the conduit to metal strapping. |
Strengthen Your Shelves
| Materials Needed | Comments |
|---|---|
| L-shaped brackets and screws | One edge screws into the shelf, the other to a stud in the wall. |
| Velcro strips (with sticky backs) | Place velcro under large or breakable items to prevent them from falling during earthquake shear. |
| Wood strips for kitchen shelves | Cut thin strips of wood (1" x 1") to the width of open shelves and permanently attach. |
| Child-proof latches for cabinets | Latches will prevent the doors from springing open during an earthquake. |
Home Survival Checklist
- Portable radio
- Extra batteries
- Flashlight
- Candles
- Matches
- First Aid Kit
- Medications
- Five-day non-perishable food supply
- Ice Chest
- Containers of water (2 quarts per person per day)
- Sleeping bag or blankets
- Personal toilet articles and sanitary needs
- Disposable diapers
- Clothing
- Manual can opener
- Cooking stove
- Fuel for stoves, hibachis, or lanterns
- Pet food
You can also review the How to Prepare Your Family for Earthquakes guide.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Active Alerts
Visit the Civil Defense website for up-to-date information.