You might live in an area where earthquakes are rare, but chances are never 100 percent that one won't occur where you live.
In the Midwest, seismologists say there is a 40 to 60 percent chance an earthquake of 6.0 magnitude will strike during the 2000s. That chance rises to 90 percent by 2040.
Take these steps to protect yourself. Even if an earthquake never occurs, these are safe steps to take:
1. Fasten shelves securely to walls.
2. Place heavy objects on the lower shelves.
3. Store breakable items, such as bottled foods, glass and china, in low closed cabinets with latches.
4. Move heavy pictures and mirrors away from beds and places where people normally sit.
5. Brace overhead light fixtures.
6. Repair electrical wiring and gas connections that are fire risks.
7. Secure a water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and floor.
8. Store flammables in closed cabinets with latches and on low shelves.
