Chimneys pose a real danger to life during earthquakes. Photo: supplied/Natural Hazards Commission
The Natural Hazards Commission is urging people to check their chimneys before the next earthquake - warning that unreinforced masonry structures can pose a serious risk.
More than 15,000 toppled in the Christchurch earthquake, causing serious injuries and even death.
Public education manager Hamish Armstrong said houses built before 1970 were most at risk, particularly if brick or concrete chimneys remained in place.
"Pretty much every major earthquake over the past 170 years has shown that crumbling chimneys pose a significant risk to people's safety and to our homes," he said.
"Brick and concrete masonry chimneys are particularly vulnerable, as they can crack, shift or collapse, causing damage to people and property."
He said signs of leaning or cracking should not be ignored, and recommended having a licensed practitioner assess the structure.
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