SECURING HEAVY ITEMS AND FURNITURE: PREVENTING INJURIES FROM FALLING OBJECTS
In the world of survival skills, one of the most overlooked aspects is securing heavy items and furniture. In a disaster or wilderness survival situation, falling objects can cause serious injuries or even death. It’s important to take the necessary precautions to prevent these accidents from happening. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of securing heavy items and furniture, the different methods you can use to do so, and the tools you’ll need. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster or planning a camping trip, this information could save your life.
So, let’s dive in and learn how to prevent injuries from falling objects.
SECURING HEAVY ITEMS AND FURNITURE: PREVENTING INJURIES FROM FALLING OBJECTS
In any survival situation, whether it be in the wilderness or during a disaster, one of the most important things to consider is safety. One of the biggest threats to safety is the risk of injury from falling objects, particularly heavy items and furniture. In this article, we will discuss the importance of securing heavy items and furniture to prevent injuries from falling objects.
Identify Potential Hazards
The first step in securing heavy items and furniture is to identify potential hazards. Look around your environment and identify any items that could fall and cause injury. This could include furniture, appliances, tools, and other heavy objects. Once you have identified potential hazards, you can take steps to secure them.
Anchoring Heavy Items and Furniture
One of the most effective ways to secure heavy items and furniture is to anchor them to the wall or floor. This can be done using brackets, straps, or other hardware designed for this purpose. When anchoring furniture to the wall, it is important to use hardware that is appropriate for the weight of the item. For example, a heavy bookcase will require stronger hardware than a lightweight shelf.
When anchoring furniture to the floor, it is important to use hardware that is appropriate for the type of flooring. For example, if you have hardwood floors, you may need to use different hardware than if you have carpet. It is also important to ensure that the hardware is installed correctly and securely.
Using Non-Slip Pads or Mats
Another way to secure heavy items and furniture is to use non-slip pads or mats. These can be placed under the legs or feet of furniture to prevent it from sliding or tipping over. Non-slip pads and mats are particularly useful on smooth surfaces such as hardwood or tile floors.
Distribute Weight Evenly
In addition to anchoring and using non-slip pads, it is important to distribute weight evenly on furniture. This can be done by placing heavier items on the bottom shelves of bookcases or by evenly distributing weight on a table or desk. Uneven weight distribution can cause furniture to tip over, potentially causing injury.
Proper Lifting Techniques
When moving heavy items and furniture, it is important to use proper lifting techniques. This includes bending at the knees and using your legs to lift, rather than your back. It is also important to have a clear path when moving heavy items and to avoid twisting or turning while carrying them.
Be Aware of Potential Hazards
In addition to securing heavy items and furniture, it is important to be aware of potential hazards in your environment. This could include loose or unstable structures, such as walls or ceilings, that could collapse and cause injury. It is also important to be aware of potential hazards outside, such as falling trees or power lines.
Have a Plan in Place
In a disaster situation, it is important to have a plan in place for securing heavy items and furniture. This could include having the necessary hardware and tools on hand, as well as having a plan for evacuating if necessary. It is also important to have a plan for securing items in a vehicle for transport, as well as a plan for securing items in a temporary shelter.
Conclusion
Securing heavy items and furniture is an important part of safety in any survival situation. By identifying potential hazards, anchoring furniture, using non-slip pads, distributing weight evenly, using proper lifting techniques, and being aware of potential hazards in your environment, you can prevent injuries from falling objects. In a disaster situation, it is important to have a plan in place for securing heavy items and furniture, as well as a plan for evacuating if necessary. By taking these steps, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
- Step 1: Secure Your Space
Earthquake shaking can move almost anything, even large or heavy items. … the injuries during this earthquake were caused by falling furniture or objects. - How to Protect Your Home from Earthquake Damage | CEA
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Sep 24, 2020 … Learn the safe spots. During an earthquake, most deaths and injuries are caused by collapsing building materials and heavy falling objects, such … - Step 1: Secure Your Space
Earthquake shaking can move almost anything, even large or heavy items. … during the Northridge earthquake were caused by falling furniture or objects. - American Drivers Aren’t Securing Their Loads on the Road | AAA …
Aug 11, 2016 … “Drivers can easily save lives and prevent injuries by securing their … cargo like furniture, appliances and other items falling onto the … - Earthquakes – What to Do?
Secure the tops of top-heavy furniture to a wall by anchoring to studs and using … Cover your head and torso to prevent being hit by falling objects. - Office Safety
Dec 9, 2014 … Injuries may result from slips, or falls from chairs and elevations. … to overexertion occur when employees attempt to move heavy objects. - Preventing Falling Objects & Tip Overs At Home
Mar 1, 2019 … Accidents around the home cause injury to hundreds of children each … to secure a television or heavy display object to the furniture it … - Objects Falling From Vehicles – Who’s At Fault? | Steinberg Law
Nov 26, 2019 … Negligence can lead to horrible accidents. Perhaps the driver hauling the items did not secure them properly. Perhaps they didn’t care to secure … - Secure Items In Your Home To Help Ensure Earthquake Safety …
“Earthquake shaking can move almost anything, even big, heavy items in your home.” … in California in 1994 were caused by falling furniture or objects.
Interesting tidbits about Securing Heavy Items and Furniture: Preventing Injuries from Falling Objects
- In 2018, there were over 47,000 emergency room visits in the United States due to injuries caused by falling furniture or other heavy objects.
- The most common cause of these injuries is children climbing on furniture and causing it to tip over.
- Earthquakes can also be a major cause of falling objects and furniture, making it important to secure items in earthquake-prone areas.
- One way to secure heavy items is by using wall anchors or brackets that attach the item directly to the wall.
- Another method is using anti-tip straps that attach from the back of a piece of furniture to the wall behind it.
- It’s important not only for safety but also for insurance purposes, as many policies require homeowners and renters alike take steps towards securing their belongings against damage or injury-causing accidents
