How to Shut Off Your Gas in Case of an Emergency

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For any suspected gas emergency, or questions regarding a gas odor or carbon monoxide, please call us immediately at 1-800-427-2200.

Step 1

It is important to know exactly where your gas meter is located (See Diagram A ) so that in the event of an emergency, you know how to shut it off.   

• DO NOT turn off your meter unless you smell gas, hear the sound of gas escaping or see other signs of a leak.
• How to detect a natural gas leak
• Learn more about emergency preparedness

Diagram A

 

Step 2

As you face the meter, you will see a pipe running from the ground to the meter. There is a shut-off valve running parallel with the pipe usually located about 6 to 8 inches above the ground.
Take a 12" adjustable wrench (or larger) and turn the valve 1/4 turn in either direction, until the valve is crosswise to the pipe. (See Diagram B)

Keep a 12" adjustable wrench (or larger) with your emergency supplies, or next to your valve.

 

Diagram B

Gas Shut-off Valves

For safety, a shut-off valve should be installed at every gas appliance. If a leak occurs at a specific appliance, the valve will permit you to turn off the gas at the appliance rather than shutting off all gas service at the meter. Some valves require a wrench to turn them.

Diagram C

CAUTION: If you turn off your gas at the meter, leave it off. Don't turn it back on yourself. Contact The Gas Company to turn the meter back on and relight the pilots.

Do Not Use the Gas Meter for Electric Bonding

Electric bonding to or use of The Gas Company’s gas piping, gas risers or meter facilities for electric grounding is not permitted. Use caution when touching gas meters. Faulty household appliances or faulty household electrical wiring could inadvertently introduce electricity to gas facilities.

September 14 , 2009