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For many residents of the Bay Area, a large financial loss
during the next severe earthquake will come from the doors
of kitchen cabinets being shaken open and most of the contents
being hurled to the floor. A few dollars spent now can prevent
most of that loss. In choosing a latch, consider looks and
ease of use. The standard hook and eye (A) is an inexpensive
and secure latch, but you may not close it every time you
enter the cabinet because it takes extra effort to do so.
A child-proof catch (E) prevents a door from opening more
than an inch or two. These catches close automatically, but
they require an extra action every time you open the door.
Some standard types of secure latches mount on the surface
of the door (B, C). Latches are available that mount inside
the door (D), hold the door firmly shut, and open by being
pushed gently inward. These are marketed under names such
as push latch, touch latch, or pressure catch. If you cannot
find these latches, ask your hardware dealer to order them
for you.
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