There’s always going to be some risk, like you said. You can’t bubble-wrap your whole life.
Couldn’t agree more with this. I used to get caught up in the “what ifs” too, especially after seeing some of the horror stories out there. First couple of properties, I went down the rabbit hole—earthquake straps on everything, even tried to anchor a toaster once (don’t recommend).
These days, I’m much more selective. If it’s heavy or tall, it gets secured. Water heater and gas lines? Non-negotiable. But if a coffee mug takes a tumble, well... that’s just part of living in quake country.
Funny how experience shifts your perspective. I still cringe at unsecured stuff sometimes, but like you said, if the bones of the building are solid and you’ve handled the big risks, that’s what really matters. Everything else is just noise.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I used to obsess over every little thing too—had a checklist a mile long, and honestly, it got exhausting. Now I focus on the stuff that’ll actually hurt someone or cause real damage. Anchoring bookshelves? Yes. Toaster? Not unless it starts walking around on its own.
One thing I still do is double-check my gas shutoff valve after any work in the area—paranoia dies hard, I guess. But yeah, at some point you just have to accept a few broken dishes and move on.
Now I focus on the stuff that’ll actually hurt someone or cause real damage. Anchoring bookshelves? Yes. Toaster? Not unless it starts walking around on its own.
That’s a solid approach—prioritizing what really matters makes a huge difference, especially when you’re dealing with older buildings. I’ve seen folks go overboard, like strapping down every lamp and picture frame, but honestly, it’s the heavy stuff and utilities that need attention. Curious if you did anything with your water heater? That’s one spot I still see overlooked, but it can cause a mess if it tips during a quake.
WATER HEATER IS A BIG ONE
Funny you mention the water heater—I've seen a few topple over after even mild shakes, and it's not pretty. I always recommend double strapping those, especially if you're in an older place with questionable plumbing. Some folks skip it because it seems secure, but those little metal straps can save you a ton of hassle (and water damage). Did you use the standard kit or go for something beefier? I usually add a couple extra screws just in case... probably overkill, but better safe than sorry.
I usually add a couple extra screws just in case... probably overkill, but better safe than sorry.
Extra screws aren’t overkill at all—seen too many “secured” tanks rip right through drywall anchors. Did you anchor into studs or just the wallboard? I always try to hit solid framing, but sometimes it’s a pain depending on the layout.
