The eastern region of the United States is not considered to be highly seismically active, but large and even immensely damaging earthquakes have occurred in and around the area.

While the New York metropolitan area and Manhattan Island are known for seismicity, all areas of the state and the surrounding states may be detrimentally impacted by an earthquake.

To date, the largest seismic event transpired in 1884 and was a 5 in magnitude. The effects were not only felt in New York, but also in Pennsylvania and Connecticut.

Regardless of your location in New York, it is of vital importance that you ensure that your home and property is as safe as possible should an earthquake hit.

What Exactly Is an Earthquake?

When blocks of the rocks of the earth move past one another, an earthquake occurs. The slip is identified as the “fault” or the “fault plane”.

The origin of the earthquake is called the “hypocenter”. The point above this area – which is located on the earth’s surface – is referred to as the “epicenter”.

The tectonic plates – or the blocks of the rocks – are in constant motion. These get stuck and the edges result in friction. This builds up energy.

When it is released, it travels in waves to the crust of the earth. This is the earthquake.

Earthquake-Proofing Measures

There are several ways to prepare your home and property for an earthquake. The following outlines the main measures that should be taken to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones:

1. Your home should be securely bolted to its foundation.
2. If the foundation is raised, the walls located within the crawlspace should consist of shear-based plywood.
3. The chimney should be properly constructed or adjusted to ensure stability.
4. If your yard is uneven, retaining walls should be put up in order to prevent the possibility of landslides from occurring.
5. All cabinets should be secured with child-proof locks to keep them closed during an earthquake.
6. Heavy furniture such as dressers and bookshelves should be secured directly to the wall so that they do not tip over during an earthquake.
7. Beds, chairs, sofas, and similar items should be placed against interior walls and away from windows.
8. Decorative items – such as knickknacks – should be safely secured to the surfaces in which they rest. You may use adhesive tabs and Velcro to secure these items for safety.
9. Flammable items should be placed in low cabinets or shelves or in a garage or a shed on your property.
10. You should obtain property insurance for New York homeowners so that you are covered in the event that an earthquake damages your property.

By following the measures outlined here, you stand the best chance of not getting injured – or worse – during an earthquake.

Earthquake insurance will help protect any complications that happen to your home or property as a result of an earthquake.

For more information, contact us today by calling: 718-855-1836