Shut Off Valves to Locate During an Earthquake

Living through an earthquake can be a harrowing experience, and the tremor itself can cause major damage to your home. There are things you can do to lessen the damage by shutting off the valves to your utilities prior, or immediately after a temblor.

There are three main areas you will have to pay attention to.

Natural Gas

It’s important to shut off natural gas supplies to your home to minimize the chance of a fire. The first step in getting this accomplished is to know where your gas shut off valve is located. At a residence, the valve is generally near the gas meter, and will be located on one of the exterior walls of your house. Keep a 12 or 15 inch crescent wrench near the valve. The valve is generally marked, and a quarter turn will shut off gas. The gas is off when the ‘tang’ is crosswise to the pipe. If you do shut off your gas, wait for the utility company to come and turn it back on.

Water

Water can become contaminated during a disaster. Water valves to your house should be identified prior to a quake, so you can easily shut them off. Utilities recommend you shut off water to your house until you are advised it is safe to use. If you cannot locate it, a plumber or the city water company will show you the location.

Electricity

Electricity can cause fires after an earthquake. The main supply of electricity is controlled at the circuit breaker box. Identify the main breaker ahead of time. The breaker box is often in a utility room or basement, if you have one. Shut off the main breaker which controls electricity coming into the house until you are advised it is safe to turn it back on.

Make sure everyone in your family knows these important steps to take in the event of an earthquake.

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