Maintenance Guides / Safety & Electrical

Anchor Tall Furniture for Earthquake Safety

Difficulty: moderateTime: 30 minsEst. Cost: $80 - $200

Why it matters

Falling furniture causes 80% of earthquake-related injuries. A $20 bracket kit can prevent a fatal injury or permanent disability.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Identify all tall or heavy furniture items (bookcases over 4 ft, dressers, china hutches, water heaters).

  • 2

    Purchase heavy-duty L-brackets or furniture straps rated for your furniture weight (typically 20–50 lb each).

  • 3

    Use a stud finder to locate wall studs behind each furniture piece.

  • 4

    Drill pilot holes and secure brackets with lag bolts or heavy-duty fasteners into studs at two points.

  • 5

    Test each anchor by gently pushing; no movement should occur.

  • 6

    Document completed anchors with photos and a checklist for future reference.