How To Shut Off Gas In An Emergency

Understanding when and why an emergency gas shut-off is necessary

Emergency gas shut-offs are critical when you detect the 'rotten egg’ odour of a gas leak or when disasters threaten gas pipes.

Gas leaks can cause serious dangers including a fire emergency, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning, which involves symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and can be fatal at high concentrations.

It’s vital to check your local gas shutoff valves and know where your off main shutoff is to quickly turn gas off in an emergency. Promptly shutting off your gas can prevent disasters, as unchecked gas leaks rapidly become dangerous.

Learning the signs of a potential leak and acting fast to engage the safety shutoff allows you to take control of the situation, call for help, and work to address the underlying issue.

Locating the gas meter and main shut-off valve

The main gas shut off is usually positioned near the meter box, possibly inset within an alcove with removable covers, or concealed behind cabinet doors. Make sure your home gas valve and its vicinity remain accessible and unobstructed.

For natural gas systems, you can find your meter and valve located outside your home, often on the side wall, or on the front near the street.

For liquid propane gas systems fueled by a gas cylinder, the main shut-off valve is on the cylinder itself.

Turn the valve clockwise to stop the gas flow to your appliances.

Emergency shut-off valves, typically lever-type, cut off gas flow completely when adjusted. Remember that once shut off, specific valves can only be reactivated by a licensed gasfitter, who also relights appliance pilot lights. A licensed gasfitter can then safely inspect for leaks before restoring gas to your system.

Recognizing the signs of a gas leak

The primary indicator of a gas leak is the 'rotten egg’ smell deliberately added to natural gas.

If you detect any gas odour, take immediate action by evacuating the area, turning off the gas supply, and calling emergency services.

An unexplained spike in your gas bill could indicate a leak.

Step-by-step process for safely shutting off the gas

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, remain calm and act quickly to shut off gas supply. Follow these steps if you smell gas or suspect a leak:

1. First, find the main shutoff valve near your gas meter - usually outside for natural gas systems, or on the LPG cylinder for propane gas setups.
2. When you reach the valve, use a wrench to turn it a quarter turn or 90 degrees perpendicular to the pipe. This action instantly stops the flow of gas.
3. After shutting off the main valve, if safe, also turn off all appliance valves.
4. Ventilate by opening doors and windows, and don’t use light switches or water if gas is off. Do not smoke or turn on/off any electrical devices.
5. Quickly leave affected areas, move to a safe distance from your home, and contact your gas supplier or emergency services if the smell persists. Have professionals assess the situation.
6. Never attempt to reconnect your gas supply after shut-off. Leave reconnection to a licensed gasfitter once the leak is repaired.

What to do after shutting off the gas

After performing an emergency gas shut-off, it’s vital to continue ventilating the area to clear off all gas and avoid any hazardous buildup. Open all doors and windows wide to circulate fresh air through the home. Refrain from turning any electrical switches or devices on or off, as any spark could still ignite gas.

Avoid using lighters, matches or anything resembling a naked flame. Do not enter your property if you still detect the rotten egg smell of gas lingering. Contact emergency services or gas leak 1800 immediately if you have any ongoing safety concerns or believe there could still be leaks.

For professional assistance, contact licensed experts in turning gas supply off or carrying out gas work safely, Call your local gas company, Greater Western Sydney Plumbing on 1300 349 338. Our licensed gas fitters can expertly inspect and repair leaks, relight pilot lights safely, and restore your gas hot water system, ensuring compliance with Australian standards.

When to call a professional gas fitter

Consult a professional for gas issues such as:

• You’re unable to locate or access the shutoff valve located
• You smell gas after shutting off the main valve
• Your gas appliances pilot light needs to be relit on your gas appliance once it’s safe
• Repairs or servicing are required for gas appliances like your gas stove or water pipe work
• Your gas system requires compliance checks or certification

Professionals are required to install, service, or deactivate gas systems, adhering to strict safety regulations. An annual inspection of your gas appliances by a licensed gas fitter helps detect leaks early and ensure optimal performance.

Trained professionals must also manage the reconnection of gas water systems and hot water units. For dependable and compliant gas services, contact Greater Western Sydney Plumbing on 1300 349 338, especially if you’re unsure about your system’s integrity.

Gas safety precautions and owner responsibilities

As a homeowner, you bear responsibility for ensuring gas safety. This involves taking precautions like:

• Conducting regular visual checks within your gas line and around appliances to spot potential leaks indicated by dead vegetation or visible damage
• Keeping the areas around gas appliances and equipment clear of clutter and combustible materials
• Ensuring adequate ventilation for gas heaters through range hoods, vents, and fans
• Scheduling yearly gas safety inspections with qualified technicians to uncover and mitigate risks
• Familiarising your family with gas shut-off valve locations and emergency procedures
• Prominently displaying the emergency contact details, including email address, and developing an evacuation plan

Following gas safety rules and taking precautions are essential to protect occupants and guests. Cultivate strong gas safety practices and promptly reach out to professionals with any alarms.