How To Shut Off the Gas in an Emergency

A gas leak can occur from an earthquake, construction accident, or faulty appliance. Here's what you need to know to turn off the gas when that happens.

It's vital to know how to shut off the systems in your home—from electric to gas and water. In this post we'll cover shutting off your gas, but look for future posts on turning off your water main and shutting down your electric.

If you smell gas, hear the sound of gas escaping, or see damage to a line, call your gas company right away. You'll want to notify them of any issues as quickly as possible. Next, locate your gas meter, which will have the main gas shut-off valve next to it.

Gas meters on residential homes are typically installed in the front or side of the home which it make them easier to access for meter readers. Then can also be located inside cabinets that are inside or outside your home or building. It's best to know the location of your meter before an emergency happens.

In this video, Geo demonstrates how to turn off your gas using a crescent wrench or 12" adjustable wrench. If you're a tool nut, you can also buy a gas shut-off wrench which can double as a water shut-off tool and pry bar.

When you face your meter, you will see a pipe running from the ground to the meter. This is the main gas line. There is a shut-off valve located about 6"-8" above the ground. When the valve runs parallel to the pipe the gas is on, when it's set perpendicular to the pipe (like a plus sign) it is shut off.

If you've determined your gas is on, turn the valve 90 degrees in either direction and it will shut off.

For more helpful resources, check out these articles and illustrations from SoCal Gas and PGE for turning off your gas line.

How to Turn on and Off Your Gas at the Meter | HowTo with Geo (YouTube)

from Lifehacker http://ift.tt/1Arox1m

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