Foresthill2023

EMERGENCY & SAFETY GUIDE

Earthquake Home Preparedness • Check your home for potential risks. Secure overhead lighting fixtures. Store heavy items and breakables on lower shelves. Fasten shelves securely to wall studs. Remove or isolate flammable materials and toxic chemicals. • Teach responsible members of your family how to shut off electricity, gas and water main switch and valves. CAUTION: DO NOT SHUT OFF GAS unless you suspect a gas leak or can smell escaping gas. If gas is ever turned off, all pilot lights must be relit. Have the gas company relight the pilot lights.

How to Shut Off Gas: • The main shut-off valve is located next to the meter on the inlet pipe. • Use a wrench and give it a quarter turn in either direction so that it runs crosswise on the pipe. The line is now closed.

OFF

How to Shut Off Water Main: • The main water shut-off valve is located where the water enters the house. Label for quick identification. The main shut-off valve can also be found in a concrete box in or near the sidewalk.

W A T E R M A I N

ON

Label for quick identification

How to Shut Off Electricity: • Examine your circuit breaker or fuse box and be certain you know where and how to shut off electricity in case of an emergency.

Pull out

How to Secure Water Heater: • When full, a 40-gallon water heater weighs well over 300 pounds. Secure water heater with approved water heater strapping. Strapping material can be purchased from your local hardware store. It will prevent the heater from falling over or spilling water, and fastening takes a few minutes, eliminates the problem, and will give you a source of emergency drinking water after the quake.

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