Shutting Off Utilities

Learn this before you need it, and show everyone in the home.

Only shut off utilities if you suspect damage or officials tell you to. Once gas is shut off, do not turn it back on yourself. Only a licensed gas professional should do that.

Water

1. Find the main shut-off (often where the water line enters the house).
2. Turn it to the right (clockwise) to close.
3. Tag it so others can find it.

Shut it off if a pipe bursts.

Electricity

1. Find your main breaker panel.
2. Push the main breaker fully to OFF.
3. Do not attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present.

Canada.ca suggests turning off the main breaker before you evacuate, if you have time.

Gas

Know where the meter valve is, and keep a wrench handy. Turn it off only if you smell gas, suspect a leak, or are told to by officials. If you smell gas, leave the building first and call your gas company or 911 from outside.

When official advice differs: wildfire evacuations

Official sources conflict here, so follow what your local emergency officials say.

• British Columbia: PreparedBC says not to shut off natural gas when you receive an evacuation order, unless officials ask.
• Canada.ca (federal): says to turn off propane or natural gas if you evacuate.
• California (CAL FIRE): says to turn off gas at the meter and pilot lights, and shut off propane tanks.

Check your local instructions before fire season.