QUAKE SAFETY OFFERED FOR FREE PROGRAM TARGETS SENIORS IN NEED.

Byline: Bhavna Mistry Staff Writer

NORTHRIDGE - Even though Jack Catherin was thankful for the volunteers who spent Saturday making his home more earthquake resistant, the Northridge resident hoped that he would never have to put the safety devices to the test.

``It's all very nice,'' said the 82-year-old as he watched volunteers install latches in his kitchen cabinets. ``I hope I don't have to use them.''

Partnering together in a disaster preparedness project to make homes safer, volunteers from the American Red Cross and Allstate Insurance worked at Catherin's home, which served as their Northridge kickoff.

Allstate donated $25,000 for the program, and the American Red Cross and city officials are still looking for about 25 other low-income seniors who may be able to benefit from the disaster preparedness services.

Seniors who may qualify are asked to call the American Red Cross at [phone].

``The 1994 Northridge Earthquake is a constant reminder of our need for disaster preparedness,'' said B.V. Castillo of the American Red Cross, Greater Los Angeles Region. ``We need to remind everybody that it could happen today.''

A retired lawyer who suffered a stroke about three years ago, Catherin said that he is the original owner of his home and lived through several earthquakes, but that you can never be too safe.

``I've been lucky,'' Catherin said. ``But you never know what will happen next time.''

As part of their efforts, volunteers secured a water heater, television, bookshelves, major appliances and other moveable items.

Catherin now will be able to chose from several contractors for installation at his home of an emergency gas shutoff value.

Dennis Odums with Allstate said that the services and materials provided could cost between $300-$400.