Why a map helps
Most people know roughly where the gas meter is, but few could say where the water heater valve is, whether the barbecue island has its own shutoff, or which way the meter tab should turn. On larger Villa Park lots with pool equipment and outdoor kitchens, there can be half a dozen valves spread across the property.
Writing them down also shows gaps. If you cannot find a valve for an appliance, or one is buried behind a cabinet, that is worth mentioning to a licensed plumber at your next visit.
Shutoff worksheet
| Valve | Exact location | Handle type | Reachable? (Y/N) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas meter | Tab; needs wrench | Only SoCalGas turns it back on | ||
| Water heater | ||||
| Furnace | ||||
| Range or cooktop | ||||
| Dryer | ||||
| Pool or spa heater | ||||
| BBQ or outdoor kitchen | ||||
| Fire pit or fireplace | ||||
| Automatic seismic valve (if any) |
How to fill it in
- Start at the meter.Find the tab on the inlet pipe. Note whether a gate, shrubs or a trash enclosure block access.
- Follow each appliance.Look behind or beside each gas appliance for the valve on the pipe feeding it. Use a flashlight rather than moving appliances.
- Walk the yard.Check the pool equipment pad, barbecue island and any fire feature for valves, often inside access doors.
- Sketch the layout.On the back of the page, draw a rough plan of the house and yard and mark each valve with a number matching the table.
- Note the tool spot.Write where the wrench or gas shutoff tool is stored, ideally somewhere reachable from outside.
Things to flag for a plumber
- An appliance with no shutoff valve you can find
- A valve behind a cabinet, panel or appliance that cannot be reached
- Rust or corrosion on outdoor valves
- A valve handle that looks bent or damaged
- Old bare brass connectors next to a valve
- No wrench or shutoff tool anywhere near the meter
Keep these on the page
- Smell gas
- Leave, then call 911 or SoCalGas from outside
- Meter closed position
- Tab crosswise to the pipe
- Who restores the meter
- SoCalGas
- CO alarm sounding
- Get outside and call 911
Common questions
Should I test each valve while mapping?
No. Just locate and note them. Old valves can stick or leak if forced; leave testing to a licensed plumber.
Where should I keep the map?
With your emergency supplies and a copy near the meter wrench, so anyone in the household can find it.
How often should I update it?
Whenever you add, remove or move a gas appliance, or after any gas work.
General information for Villa Park, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.