How to Turn Off Utilities in Case of an Emergency

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Make a list of utilities that will need attention in an emergency.

   Here are a list of some common ones:
   Gas Electric Water Telephone Television cable Sewer
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   Step 2: Locate the service entry or shutoff valve for each of these utilities.

   You will need to know the location and what tools are needed to turn each one off. , Water valves, for instance, may be located in an underground box, it may be beneath the lawn or underneath shrubs or landscaping, so it must be kept clear for access in an emergency. ,, Water, for instance, should be shut off if a pipe bursts to prevent your property from flooding, gas and electric should be turned off in the event of a fire, since these can cause great danger to firefighters. , If your property is burning, do not enter the building to turn off the electric if you are risking being overcome by smoke or fire.
   
   If a gas line bursts or is leaking, remaining inside could be more dangerous than leaving the gas on.
   
   You also may be able to turn the gas off out doors at a gas storage tank or meter. , You may want to turn off everything prior to evacuating the property, if so, shut off all the other utilities before turning off the electric so you will have lights available for this activity.
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   Step 3: Make sure any enclosures that contain valves or switches for these utilities are accessible.

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   Step 4: Have wrenches available for water and gas valves if the valve requires them.

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   Step 5: Understand the need to disconnect or shut off each utility.

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   Step 6: Look at the situation to make sure it is safe to turn off the utilities.

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   Step 7: Understand the priority of shutting off utilities.

Detailed Guide

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