Secure Your Water Heater

(A) Wrap a 1-1/2-inch-wide, 16-gauge-thick metal strap around the top of the water heater and bolt the ends together.

Do the same about 1/3 of the way up the side of the water heater.

(B) Take 4 lengths of EMT electrical conduit, each no longer than 30 inches. Flatten the ends. Bolt one end to the metal strap as shown. Screw the other end to a 2-inch by 4-inch stud in the wall using a 5/16-inch by 3-inch lag screw.

(C) Be sure a flexible pipe is used to connect the gas supply to the heater.

Image courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey, Earthquake Hazards Program