How to Shut Off Utilities in an Emergency: The Ultimate Guide

Emergencies don’t follow schedules. Burst pipes, gas leaks, or electrical hazards can happen at any time, leaving you scrambling if you’re unprepared. Knowing how to shut off your home’s utilities—water, gas, and electricity—could prevent costly damage and, most importantly, keep your family safe.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for shutting off each utility, provide safety tips, and share best practices for staying prepared. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a sudden home emergency, this information will help you act quickly and confidently.

Why You Should Know How to Shut Off Utilities

Being able to turn off utilities isn’t just for emergencies like natural disasters. It’s also helpful during routine home maintenance or unexpected issues, such as:

• Burst water pipes, which can cause flooding.
• Gas leaks, which could lead to fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Electrical hazards, like sparking wires or flooded outlets.

By knowing where utility shutoff points are and how to use them, you can minimize damage, reduce risks, and make things easier for first responders or repair professionals.

How to Shut Off Water

A burst pipe or contaminated water supply can cause severe damage to your home. Here’s how to turn off your water in a hurry:

1. Locate the Main Water Shutoff Valve

The main shutoff valve is usually located:

• In colder areas: In the basement, near the water heater, or in a utility room.
• In warmer areas: Outside, near the water meter.

If you use a well, look for shutoff valves on either side of your pressure tank.

2. Turn the Valve Off

• If the valve is a round handle, turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed.
• If it’s a lever-style valve, move it until it’s perpendicular to the pipe.

3. Drain the Pipes

After shutting off the main valve, open a faucet to let any remaining water in the pipes drain out. This helps reduce pressure and makes repairs easier.

4. Individual Shutoff Valves

If the issue is isolated (e.g., a leaking toilet or faucet), turn off the water supply at the fixture’s shutoff valve instead of the main valve. These valves are typically located where the water line connects to the fixture.

How to Shut Off Gas

Gas leaks can be incredibly dangerous, with risks of fires or explosions. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately and follow these steps:

1. Locate the Main Gas Shutoff Valve

The main valve is typically located outside your home, near the gas meter. The valve is usually a rectangular handle.

2. Turn the Valve Off

• Use a wrench to turn the valve 90 degrees so it’s perpendicular to the pipe. This stops the gas flow.
• Keep a crescent wrench or an all-purpose gas tool near the valve for emergencies.

3. Important Safety Notes

• Never turn the gas back on yourself. Contact your gas company to restore service.
• Avoid creating sparks: Don’t flip switches, use electronics, or light flames.

If your home has gas appliances (e.g., a stove, water heater, or furnace), familiarize yourself with their individual shutoff valves for routine maintenance or repairs.

How to Shut Off Electricity

Electricity poses unique risks, including shocks and fires, especially during flooding or electrical malfunctions. Here’s how to safely turn off power:

1. Find the Circuit Breaker Box

The electrical panel (or breaker box) is often located in a basement, garage, or utility room.

2. Turn Off Individual Circuits First

Before cutting power to the entire house, flip each individual breaker switch to the off position. This prevents a power surge.

3. Turn Off the Main Breaker

• The main breaker switch is usually larger and located at the top or bottom of the panel. Flip it to the off position to shut off all electricity to your home.
• If you’re not sure how to access or use the breaker box, contact a licensed electrician.

4. Safety Precautions

• Don’t touch the panel if the area is wet or flooded. Call your electric company instead.
• Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off before touching wires.

Best Practices for Utility Shutoffs

1. Test Valves Annually: Regularly check that your valves work properly. Stuck valves can cause delays during emergencies.
2. Teach Your Family: Ensure all capable household members know where the shutoff points are and how to use them.
3. Write It Down: Create a list of locations and instructions. Keep it in a safe, easy-to-find place.
4. Contact Your Utility Providers: If you’re unsure about your shutoff points, contact your water, gas, or electric company for guidance.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, shutting off utilities isn’t enough. Call a professional if:

• You smell gas or suspect a leak.
• The breaker box is sparking or damaged.
• You can’t locate or operate a shutoff valve.

Plumbers, electricians, and gas technicians can assess the issue and ensure your home is safe.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to turn off utilities is a critical part of homeownership. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a gas leak, or an electrical emergency, these simple actions can protect your home and family. Remember, preparation and practice make all the difference when seconds count.

Call 1-Tom-Plumber 

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need any plumbing, drain cleaning, water damage, or excavation service. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.