How to power down in an emergency

Listen to authorities: In case of emergency due to extreme elements, the communications authorities will make a call to power down our homes. This means turning off gas, electrical, and water. When it comes to safety, every one needs to know how and where to power down their house. They need to have the specialty tools to do the job and know how to use them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Gas wrench
• Water meter wrench or equiv
• USA locating services (sometimes)
• Digging tools (sometimes)
• Metal detector (sometimes)

1. Know where your water meter and valve is located Know where your water meter and shut off valve is located: Usually a water meter and valve is at the street just behind the sidewalk. However older neighborhood properties may need a little sleuthing to find the meter,( if there is one) and valve. Sometimes they're in a clay pipe buried in dirt from years of neglect. Go on a search and recover mission.
2. Using a crescent wrench to shut off the water Know how to shut off the water: You may have the water main tool, but a crescent wrench and a large screw driver will do.
3. Gas meter and valve Know where the gas meter and valve are located: This should be fairly easy for the size of the gas meter.
4. The sloted tool on the valve ready to operate Familiarize yourself with the tools: The picture shows a gas valve wrench. It should be in an accessible place in case of emergency. You might even save your neighbors property because you were prepared. Familiarize yourself with the operation of such tools.
5. Electrical main Locate the electrical power supply main: With the throw of the main switch, the structure is 'dead'. My electrician, Tom Rich Electric, of Redding CA. says, " Always make sure your electrical panel is clearly marked and legible".

Tips & Warnings

• If you go to garage sales, look for these tools at a discount
• Check on your neighbors; They may not be as savvy as you
• During an emergency, communications may be cut off, and someone may have to make the decision to power down on their own. Be prepared
• Know the power up procedure for gas utilities and appliances
• Make sure back up batteries are in good condition for appliances with memory