For a few hundred dollars homeowners can have a gas shutoff valve installed on their side of the meter. In the event of an earthquake or other seismic activity of 5.1 or greater, the valve will automatically shut off the gas to the home.
How do you turn off the gas during an earthquake?
Customers who prefer that their gas shuts off automatically in an earthquake can purchase a seismic shut-off valve. These valves are positioned on the customer’s side of the gas meter to automatically stop the flow of gas into a structure.
Do I turn off gas after earthquake?
immediately after an earthquake. Because leaking natural gas can be such a threat, FEMA suggests that everyone in a home knows how to turn off the main valve. If you smell gas or hear it leaking, you should open a window if possible and leave the area immediately on foot before trying to turn off the gas.
How does an earthquake gas shut off valve work?
Seismic valves are triggered by the ground shaking caused by earthquakes. When shaking reaches the level of the valve’s designated shut-off point (generally around 5.2-5.4 on the Richter Scale), the valve will automatically stop the flow of gas into your house.
What happens to gas lines during an earthquake?
Gas lines, which tend to be more rigid than water lines, are often pulled from their connection points during earthquakes. This can create a dangerous gas leak, which in turn can lead to fires and even explosions. This risk is the reason why fires are so common after an earthquake.
When should you turn off your gas after an earthquake?
In the event of an earthquake or other seismic activity of 5.1 or greater, the valve will automatically shut off the gas to the home.
Where is the safest place to go during an earthquake?
COVER your head and neck (and your entire body if possible) underneath a sturdy table or desk. If there is no shelter nearby, get down near an interior wall or next to low-lying furniture that won’t fall on you, and cover your head and neck with your arms and hands.
Why should one turn off gas and electricity supply during an earthquake?
Gas and electricity are reason for the break out of fire, and in earthquake anything can trigger this, because everything is in unstable mode. Therefore it is recommended to turn off gas and electricity to avoid any kind of catastrophic failure.
When should you turn your gas off?
When to turn off your gas Do not shut off the gas unless you smell gas, hear gas escaping, see a broken gas line or suspect a gas leak.
Where is the gas shut off valve located?
Your main shut off valve is located just before the gas meter. This is called your “street side valve”. On the inside of your house, where the pipe enters your house, you can find your “house side valve.” This ball valve is attached to a black iron pipe.
How do you tell if gas valve is on or off?
Are gas shut off valves required?
Use an approved valve The State of California requires approval for all excess flow gas shut-off valves and earthquake-actuated gas shut-off valves used within the state.
How can we protect gas appliances from earthquakes?
Earthquake-Proof Your Appliances: You can minimize your risks by taking care of your gas appliances. Start with your water heater. Make sure it’s secure by bolting it down or strapping it to the wall or ceiling. If you need help, contact a professional.
What must you do first after an earthquake?
Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home. Learn first aid. Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity. Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.
What supplies should you always have in case of an earthquake?
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation) Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food) Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. Flashlight. First aid kit. Extra batteries. Whistle (to signal for help).
Where should you go in your house during an earthquake?
If you are indoors when a earthquake hits: Drop down and take cover under a desk or table. Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to exit. Stay away from bookcases and other furniture that can fall on you. Stay away from windows and light fixtures. If you are in bed – hold on and stay there.
How do I turn off my gas and electric?
To shut off the gas in an emergency, take these precautions: The shut-off valve is located next to the meter on the inlet pipe. Use a crescent wrench or an Emergency Gas Shut-Off Wrench and turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction so that it runs perpendicular (crosswise) to the pipe. The line is now closed.
Where do I turn off the gas in my house?
Locate your main gas service shutoff valve. It’s usually the first fitting on the natural gas supply pipe coming out of the ground next to the meter. With a wrench, turn the lever in either direction until it is crosswise to the pipe. Once the gas is turned off, leave it off.
Is it safe to disconnect a gas stove?
Shutting off the gas to the stove yourself is safe only if the gas odor is faint and is clearly coming from the stove area.
Is it better to be upstairs or downstairs during an earthquake?
In major earthquakes, it is usually safer upstairs than being on ground level. It can be dangerous trying to run hastily downstairs. First of all, calm down and look around before you do anything.
What’s the longest an earthquake can last?
During the very largest earthquakes, fault rupture can continue for up to 5 minutes as the rupture spreads over a length of say 1000km. For these earthquakes very high levels of aftershocks mean that continuous ground shaking can be felt for some hours.
Is it safe to stay in bed during an earthquake?
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away: If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings. If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.