Beware Of Falling Fridges: How To Keep A Potential Disaster From Happening In Your Home

When you open the doors and grab a drink, it probably doesn't cross your mind that your refrigerator, the staple of the kitchen, could cause you harm. But if you've seen recent headlines involving a 600-pound fridge falling on comedian Laura Clery, you may be second-guessing whether yours is secure. Thanks to the quick action of first responders, Clery avoided an even worse outcome, but the incident is a reminder of just how dangerous a tipping appliance can be. Refrigerators weigh an average of 150 to 400 pounds, depending on their size and features. Fortunately, there's a simple step that can help prevent a similar accident: checking whether your model requires an anti-tip bracket and making sure it's properly installed. If your fridge doesn't require an anti-tip bracket but you're still worried, an earthquake appliance strap offers an easy way to anchor it to the wall.

While there are mistakes everyone makes when buying a refrigerator, the biggest blunder is improper installation. Top-heavy refrigerators, in particular, are more likely to tip over, and rushing through the process is a common mistake you'll want to avoid when installing any appliance.

There are some unreliable appliance brands to avoid at all costs according to home improvement experts, but even if yours isn't on that list, it's crucial to follow proper installation procedures. Some refrigerators, especially those that are top-heavy, have French doors, or are counter-depth bottom freezers, may come with pieces of hardware called an anti-tip bracket. These metal brackets are usually anchored to a stud in the wall and then secured to the appliance, preventing it from tipping forward.

If your appliance didn't come with these brackets but you're still worried about potential tipping, an earthquake appliance strap may offer the peace of mind you're after. Intended to keep furniture in place during earthquakes, these kits feature straps with strong adhesive pads that secure to a refrigerator, as well as anchors that can be screwed into wall studs. The straps then connect to the anchors. Earthquake appliance straps are readily available online; just be sure to choose a kit that supports your fridge's weight.