Why a plan matters more than a phone number
A burst supply line found by the opening cook, a sewer backup during a Friday rush or a gas smell at close all have one thing in common: the person who notices it is often not the person who usually makes decisions. Without a plan, minutes are lost looking for a shutoff, waiting for permission or calling the wrong person.
A good emergency plan is short. It shows where the shutoffs are, lists who can authorize work, says when to stop service and spells out the safety steps that never need permission.
Build the plan in an afternoon
- Walk the building.Find the main water shutoff, the gas shutoff, each fixture stop, the water heater valve and every sewer clean-out. Photograph each one.
- Make a map.Mark everything on a simple floor plan. Post it in the office and keep a copy with each manager.
- Name the decision makers.List who can authorize emergency work and how to reach them, plus the property manager for shared systems.
- Write the safety rules.Gas smell, sewage and flooding steps that anyone can take without asking.
- Train and drill.Show every manager where the shutoffs are and have them close one. Repeat when staff changes.
Stop service or keep going?
Write your own thresholds into the plan. These are common starting points.
- IfAnyone smells gasEvacuate immediately and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Do not reopen until told it is safe.
- IfSewage is on the floor near food, prep or dish areasStop service in that area and keep people away until it is cleaned up.
- IfNo hot water for dishwashing or handwashingFood safety rules may require you to stop. Know your options before it happens.
- IfA supply line is leaking and has been shut offYou may be able to keep partial service if remaining fixtures work and the area is safe.
- IfRestrooms are out of serviceCheck what your business is required to provide before deciding to stay open.
What to have on hand
Questions to ask when you call for emergency help
- Are you licensed, and what is your CSLB license number?
- How is after-hours work billed, and is there a diagnostic charge?
- What should we do while we wait?
- Will you give us a written description of what you did?
Common questions
Should the closing manager shut off the main water?
If a leak cannot be stopped at the fixture, yes. Make sure they know where it is and how to turn it before they ever need to.
What if we cannot reach the owner or property manager?
Safety steps such as evacuating for gas, shutting off water and keeping people away from sewage never need permission. Your plan should say who can approve repairs when the owner cannot be reached.
Do we have to close if the restrooms fail?
It depends on your business and its permits. Check the requirements that apply to you in advance so the decision is not made under pressure.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.