Earthquakes don’t kill, buildings do. And if you live in any of the earthquake prone cities, here’s what you need to know about building a stronger, safer home, courtesy architects Damini Datta and Rahul Uberoi.
1. Go Light for Roofs & Walls
Wherever possible the roof should be made of light-weight material. Floors, walls and partitions should also be as light as possible. Lightweight structures are less likely to fall when the ground shakes.
2. What Kind of Glass Will be Used?
Instead of regular glass which can explode into shards and cause serious injury, use tempered or toughened glass. If this is out of your budget, cover regular glass with shatter-resistant safety film.
3. Practical over Chandelier
Skip the chandelier for more practical light fixtures if you live in an earthquake-prone zone. Also, make sure the light fixture is attached to a rigid material like plastic, aluminium or brass.
4. Fix the Bookshelves
Bookshelves and filing cabinets should be attached to the walls using flexible fasteners.
5. Brace the TV
Television sets and computers should be attached to safety straps. They even come in handy when reorganising the room.
6. Reinforce Walls
Reinforcing walls lends tensile strength to walls. If not iron rods, one can deploy bamboo to do the job.
7. Keep Inflammables Out
Inflammable liquids must be kept out of the living quarters.
8. Closed Hooks
Hang flower pots, mirrors, paintings and photographs on closed hooks to prevent them from falling off in the event of an earthquake.
9. Renovate Wisely
Large windows, skylights, opening out existing floors to make a two-storey foyer - while add aesthetic appeal, could also spell disaster.
10. The Basic Drill
Keep beds away from windows to avoid an accident if an earthquake occurs during the night. Educate family members on where to duck or take cover. Keep an emergency kit handy. And finally, know where the main switches of the gas, electricity and water are, so that they can be switched off during an emergency.