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... Stucco/gypsum walls. Stucco walls without adequate sheathing may be strengthened by the addition of plywood. Check to make certain that garage and basement walls have adequate lateral bracing. The addition of plywood sheathing is an inexpensive way to strengthen a wall. 4. Masonry wall facade. Remove or secure dangerous masonry moldings and facades, check that any masonry is securely attached to your home. If your chimney is very tall, consider means of strengthening or supporting it. 5. Other tips: Consider replacing large plate glass windows with safety glass. Install positive latches on all cabinets. Study the possibility of purchasing earthquake insurance. It may be a sound investment for you. If you rent your home, discuss these recommendations with your landlord. FIRE SAFETY Following a major earthquake, your local fire ... your home. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER Learn Now, Before There's A Fire: Read the label Instruct all family members Periodically review instructions and operations. Learn how to P-A-S-S: Pull the pin or ring. Some units require releasing a lock latch, pressing a puncture lever, or other motion. Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire. Squeeze or press the handle. Sweep from side to side slowly at the base of the fire until it goes out. If the fire gets big, get out! Close the door to slow the spread of the fire. SMOKE DETECTORS In addition to fire extinguishers, properly installed smoke detectors save lives! A smoke detector could warn you if a fire breaks out after an earthquake, in an uninhabited area of the home, ...

...ly attached to your home. If your chimney is very tall, consider means of stre...