Utilities make home living comfortable. However, they can also give rise to some hazardous situations. A gas leak can lead to medical emergencies or explosions, a burst pipe can cause severe flooding, and a malfunctioning outlet can cause a fire. Fortunately, many of these occurrences often come with warning signs that can avert disaster if acted on quickly. The best thing to do in these instances is to turn off the associated utility. However, not many know how to do so, which is why we’re here to teach you how to turn off your water, electricity, and gas in an emergency.
How to Turn Off Your Water, Electricity, and Gas
Once you stop the flow of water, electricity, and gas, you’re cutting off the source of the problem. That’s why it’s important to not only know where your utility shutoffs are but how to turn them off. Here are some tips to prepare for an emergency:
- Shutting Off Water: If you have a leak, it’s best to shut off the valve closest to the issue (such as the valve beside the toilet or under the sink). If you need to turn off the main valve, that is likely found in the basement, garage, under the kitchen sink, or next to the water heater.
- Shutting Off Electric: If there’s a burning smell or flooding in your home, you need to cut the power. To do so, open your electrical panel, which is usually found in the garage, a closet, or the basement, and switch off each individual circuit before turning off the main breaker.
- Shutting Off Gas: If you smell gas, leave the premises and call the utility company, but if they instruct you to turn off the main gas-line valve, you’ll need a crescent wrench – a tool which you should store near it. Afterward, you should open all windows and doors to release the gas.
For larger, more complex issues, like flooding near the electrical panel or a very strong gas odor, your safest bet is to call the respective technician to handle the problem.
Consider Installing Sensors to Alert You of Trouble
Some sensors can alert you of an abnormality in your home. Equipment such as natural gas detectors and water leak detectors that automatically shut off your water supply can protect your home from disaster. Some insurers will even offer you a discount on your homeowners policy if you install gas and water leak sensors, so you should reach out to your independent agent to discuss your options.
Keep Your Family and Home Protected with Homeowners Insurance
If the situation is dire and you believe you’re in danger, your priority should be to evacuate the premises and contact the appropriate authorities and technicians. If you have standard homeowners insurance, you’ll be covered in the event of a gas explosion, electrical fire, and flooding, assuming the accident wasn’t caused by a lack of maintenance or outdated plumbing or electrical. You can rest assured that your family will not suffer a significant financial setback.
Having a plan in place to turn off your water, electricity, and gas in an emergency may seem simple enough, but familiarizing yourself with these sources can prevent a much more dangerous situation. However, since it’s important to catch these issues early, it’s also important to have the right insurance to keep you protected financially. At TJ Woods Insurance, our agents can pair you with the right homeowners policy and inform you of the discounts available. If you require coverage to protect your family from utility disasters, contact us today.
