Right after the shaking stops
- IfYou smell gas or hear hissingThenGet everyone out, close the meter valve if it is safe, and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- IfA gas pipe or appliance is visibly broken or pulled looseThenLeave, close the meter if safe, and call from outside.
- IfA fire has startedThenLeave and call 911.
- IfNo smell, no sound, no visible damageThenLeave the gas on and keep checking for a smell.
- IfA water heater has tipped or movedThenTreat it as possible gas damage; check for a smell from a safe position and call if in doubt.
Why not shut it off just in case
Once the meter valve is closed, the gas has to be turned back on and every pilot relit, and SoCalGas advises letting its technicians do that. After a widespread quake, many homes may be waiting at once. Shutting off a house that was not leaking trades a small risk for a long stretch without hot water, heat or a stove.
The rule is simple enough to remember under stress: smell, sound or visible damage means close it and leave; none of those means leave it on and stay alert.
Prepare now
Seismic gas shutoff valves
A seismic gas shutoff valve is installed on the house side of the meter and closes automatically when it senses strong shaking. Another type, an excess flow valve, closes when gas flow jumps far above normal, as it would if a line broke. Either way, once tripped, the valve has to be reset and appliances relit.
Whether one is required, and when, depends on local rules. Some California jurisdictions have requirements tied to new construction, remodels or sales. Check with the city of Fullerton, or your own city, rather than assuming. Installing one is gas piping work and should be done by a licensed contractor, with a permit where required.
Automatic valve vs. manual shutoff only
With a seismic or excess flow valve
- Closes without anyone at home
- May trip in shaking even when nothing leaked
- Needs a reset and relight after tripping
- Installed after the meter on the owner's side
Manual meter valve only
- Someone must be present and able to reach it
- Gas stays on unless a person closes it
- Relying on a smell or sound to decide
- No added equipment to maintain
Before gas comes back on after a quake
- Look for damage.Check visible piping, connectors and the water heater and furnace for movement or strain.
- Repair what moved.Have a licensed contractor fix damaged lines or connectors and pressure test the system.
- Restore service.SoCalGas restores service at the meter and relights pilots, or the contractor coordinates it.
- Watch the flames.Burners should burn steady blue; yellow or lazy flames need a check.
Common questions
Do I need a seismic gas shutoff valve in Fullerton?
Check with the city. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and can depend on construction, remodels or sales.
My seismic valve tripped but nothing smells. Can I reset it?
Follow the valve maker's instructions and relight procedures, or have a licensed contractor or SoCalGas do it. If you smell gas, leave and call from outside.
Does strapping the water heater protect the gas line?
It keeps the heater from tipping and pulling on its gas connection, which is one of the main reasons California requires it.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.