Small displacements can conceal electrical, water and mechanical hazards.
BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA
Washing machines, refrigerators and other large appliances should be inspected before being used after an earthquake, even when they appear undamaged. Seismic movement can loosen electrical cables, displace water hoses, deform connections or move equipment away from its level position. Turning an affected appliance on immediately may worsen hidden damage or create risks of flooding, electric shock and fire.
A washing machine’s water-supply and drainage hoses should be checked for cracks, bends, loose fittings and moisture around their connections. The appliance must remain level, since displacement can cause excessive vibration or internal damage during the spin cycle. Debris should also be removed from the drum and surrounding area before operation. Any machine exposed to flooding or significant moisture should remain disconnected until examined by a qualified technician.
A refrigerator that moved, tilted or fell should be returned to an upright and stable position but not reconnected immediately. Waiting several hours allows its refrigerant and compressor oil to settle, reducing the possibility of mechanical failure. Owners should inspect the power cable, rear compressor area and refrigerant lines for visible damage, while models with water dispensers or ice makers require additional checks for leaking or displaced hoses.
Doors and seals should close evenly, and unusual noises, strong vibrations or intermittent cooling after restart may indicate that an internal component shifted. Food safety must also be assessed following an extended outage because perishable products may no longer be safe even if the refrigerator resumes operating. Digital diagnostic systems can provide useful warnings, but they cannot replace a physical inspection when damage or leakage is visible.
Gas-powered stoves, dryers and water heaters require a separate and more urgent assessment. If there is a gas odor or hissing sound, occupants should avoid flames, electrical switches and appliances, leave the area immediately and contact emergency services or the gas provider from a safe location. They should not attempt to locate or repair the leak themselves.
Electrical service should likewise remain off when outlets are damaged, wiring is exposed or water has entered the installation. Once power returns, voltage fluctuations can affect sensitive devices, making surge protection advisable. The central rule is simple: when an appliance has moved significantly, become wet or begun behaving differently, leaving it disconnected is safer than testing it repeatedly.
Información que anticipa futuros. / Information that anticipates futures.