Unfortunately, we are no strangers to earthquakes in California. Scientists remain unsure when a significant earthquake could rock our state again, so it’s essential to be as prepared as possible.
Tips To Prepare For An Earthquake
- Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, first-aid supplies, and everything you may need. Make sure everyone knows its location.
- Securely mount shelving to the walls and keep heavy objects on low shelves.
- Have a plan for where to meet afterward and a list of emergency contact numbers for the family and neighbors.
- Know how to turn off the utilities, especially the gas valve.
There’s plenty of great information from organizations like FEMA on how to be prepared for an earthquake, what to do during it, and how to react afterward. Right now, we’d like to focus on shutting off the gas valve so that you know not to neglect this important task.
The Importance of Shutting Off the Gas Valve
In the aftermath of a major earthquake, you need a checklist to remind you of some essential home tasks, as your surroundings could be hectic.
- An earthquake can disconnect your gas from major appliances or cause a rupture in the gas line. And, as you know, this would be very dangerous.
- After any significant earthquake or if you suspect a gas leak, shut off the gas to your home.
Remember, you may need the local utility company to turn it back on later, so you could be without gas for a while.
What to Do
Here’s what you should know about shutting off the gas in an earthquake or another emergency
- Know where the gas valve is. It may be in a meter on the ground or a cabinet on the side of the house. Please make sure everyone in the home can locate it.
- Use a 12-inch adjustable wrench. We recommend keeping this near the valve or with your emergency supplies.
- Turn the valve 1/4 in either direction until the valve is perpendicular to the pipe.
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