Safely Shut Off Utilities: Shutting off utilities during a disaster can prevent fires, gas leaks, and water damage. This guide explains when, why, and how to turn electricity, gas, and water off. Knowing these steps can protect your home and loved ones in an emergency.
How to Safely Shut Off Utilities – Electricity
When to Shut Off Electricity
- You see sparks or exposed wires.
- You smell something burning but can’t find the source.
- Floodwaters are rising near outlets or appliances.
- Authorities advise shutting off power for safety.
Why Shut Off Electricity?
Electricity can cause fires or electrocution if exposed to water or damaged during a disaster. Turning it off can prevent further damage.
How to Shut Off Electricity
- Locate the electrical panel – Usually found in a garage, basement, utility room, or outside.
- Open the panel – Carefully remove the cover to access the circuit breakers.
- Find the main breaker switch—this is the large switch labeled “MAIN” or “MAIN BREAKER.”
- Flip the switch to OFF – Push or pull the switch until it is fully in the OFF position.
- Shut off individual circuits if needed – If the main breaker is difficult to access, turn off smaller breakers individually.
⚠ Important: If you see downed power lines, stay away and call your utility company. Never walk through water with live electrical wires.
How to Safely Shut Off Utilities – Natural Gas
You smell rotten eggs (a sign of a gas leak).
- You hear a hissing sound near gas lines or appliances.
- You see broken gas pipes or smell gas after an earthquake or disaster.
- Your utility provider or emergency services instruct you to do so.
When to Shut Off the Gas
Why Shut Off the Gas?
A gas leak can cause explosions or poisoning. Turning it off can prevent fires and dangerous fumes.
How to Shut Off Gas
- Find your gas meter – Usually located outside, near the front or side of your home.
- Locate the shut-off valve – This is a small metal valve near the gas meter, usually in line with the gas pipe.
- Use a wrench to turn the valve – Keep a wrench stored nearby for emergencies. Turn the valve a quarter (90 degrees) to perpendicular (across) the pipe.
- Leave it OFF until a professional restores it – Do not turn the gas back on yourself. Contact your gas company for assistance.
⚠ Important: If you suspect a gas leak, do not use matches, lighters, or electrical devices. Leave the area and call emergency services immediately.
How to Safely Shut Off Utilities – Water
When to Shut Off the Water
- You hear a hissing sound near gas lines or appliances.
- A pipe bursts inside your home.
- There is a sewage backup or flooding.
- Authorities warn of water contamination.
- You are evacuating and need to prevent damage while away.
Why Shut Off the Water?
Shutting off water prevents flooding, reduces property damage, and protects against emergency contamination.
How to Shut Off Water
- Find your main water shut-off valve. It is usually near your water meter, in a basement, garage, crawl space, or outside.
- Turn the valve clockwise (right) – If it’s a wheel-type valve, turn it to the right. If it’s a lever-style valve, turn it perpendicular to the pipe.
- Drain leftover water – Open a faucet to release pressure and drain the remaining water from pipes.
- Check for leaks – Ensure water stops flowing after shutting off the valve.
⚠ Important: If water is contaminated, avoid drinking or using it for cooking. Boil water or use bottled water until officials confirm it is safe.
How to Prepare Before an Emergency
- Locate all shut-off points – Identify where to turn off your home’s electricity, gas, and water.
- Label shut-off valves and switches – Mark each valve and breaker for easy identification.
- Keep necessary tools nearby – Store a wrench near the gas valve and keep a flashlight by the electrical panel.
- Practice shutting off utilities – Familiarize yourself with the process before an emergency happens.
- Educate family members – Ensure everyone in your home knows these steps.
By preparing ahead, you can act quickly and keep your home safe in a crisis.
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