There is no cost involved in teaching everyone in your home about how & when to turn off the gas, electricity, and water after an earthquake. This can be as simple as clearly marking where the shut-off valves are, and posting instructions close by. Below are some common examples of shut-off valves. Even if you have something different, like a propane tank, the shut-off will be similar. If you cannot find the shut-off valves, or you do not understand the valve system, call your local utility company or tank provider.

Remember, consider shutting off utilities if you can smell gas, smell or see fire, or see damage to, from, or near the utility lines. It is wise to shut off utilities if you are going to leave the home for extended periods of time. This is because of the probability of aftershock.

• TEST YOUR GAS VALVE: Locate and identify your gas meter and main shut-off valve with those persons you believe could and should know how to shut off your gas if necessary. Identify the master shut-off valve.
  
  
• Paint the valve bright red. Note: Caution, there may be more than one shut-off on your meter.
  
  
• Use the illustrations of gas meter (pg. 18) and main shut-off valves (above) to help you identify yours.
  
  
• Using a 12" adjustable, or other appropriate wrench, turn the main valve 1/8 of a turn only to the right or left. (This movement may be difficult at first)
  
  
• CAUTION: Be careful, do not to turn any valve MORE than 1/8 turn to the right or left when testing. (If you do, pilot lights will very likely go out and it will require a trained person to relight them.)
  
  
• After you have moved that valve to ensure that it works, KEEP THE WRENCH AT THE METER, use plastic "zip ties" or straps to secure it to your meter.
  
  
• If you use an adjustable wrench be sure to store it pre-fit to your valve. That way in case it rusts or corrodes it will still fit. Heavy oil or grease applied to the moving parts of the wrench, before you secure it, will help keep it functional and ready for use. Do not buy any plastic or fiberglass gas wrenches. They become brittle with time.
  
  
• If the main valve will not turn 1/8 turn, then call the Gas Company immediately to have it fixed or replaced.