Dealing with Utilities - Gas
Fire is the second leading cause of destruction following an earthquake, so it is extremely important to know when and how to turn off the gas.
Turn the gas off when:
-
You smell gas. The smell of gas is recognizable by its distinctive "rotten egg" smell.
-
You hear the hissing sound of gas escaping.
-
A gas appliance or water tank has broken loose from its connections or fallen over.
When you smell a natural gas odour under any circumstances:
-
Shut off the main gas supply to your home.
To shut-off the main gas valve (normally located at your gas meter on the exterior of your home), use a specially made gas shut off wrench or a designated crescent wrench.
-
Ventilate the building.
Natural gas is lighter than air and will dissipate through the open windows and doors.
-
Do not smoke, turn electrical switches on or off, use the phone, or create any other source of ignition.
-
If the gas odour is strong, especially when accompanied by the sound of escaping gas, evacuate the premises IMMEDIATELY.
If your home is not in danger from fire or leaking gas, consider leaving your gas supply turned on.
All pilot lights should be relit by qualified personnel only. It can be dangerous for you to turn the gas supply back on after an earthquake without having inspected the gas piping venting and appliances.