As California residents, we’re all well aware of the presence of earthquakes and the damage they can cause. Earthquake damage can easily reach $1 billion as we’ve seen in the past; problems stemming from natural gas leaks, fires, broken glass, destroyed buildings and more.
Is your natural gas line ready in the event of an earthquake? Earthquake shut-off valves will protect you, your family, and your home from a potentially deadly situation.
How Do Earthquake Shut-Off Valves Work?
Earthquake shut-off valves are installed to automatically shut off your natural gas service. It’s critical to restrict the flow of natural gas in order to prevent damage to your home and your health when an earthquake strikes and causes damage to pipes. Seismic activity can quickly disrupt your home’s foundation and lead to major problems. Protect your home with one of these two common specialized valves:
Seismic Natural Gas Shut-Off Valve
When an earthquake of a sufficient is detected, the valve will shut off your natural gas service.
Excess-Flow Valve
The earthquake shut-off valve will shut off your natural gas service when a significant leak or overpressure surge occurs at a pipe, or where an appliance is located beyond the location of the valve installation.
Should I Install an Earthquake Shut-Off Valve in My Home?
The answer is simple—yes. In the event of a seismic earthquake of 5.1 or higher, earthquake shut-off valves will close the gas line even when you are not home. They can save your home from fires and damages when resources are most strained during an earthquake. Not to mention, valves are very soon to be a required update on all homes.
How Do I Identity a Potential Natural Gas Leak in My Home?
It’s important to be able to recognize and respond in the event of a natural gas leak. Not only can you detect a natural gas leak from the smell, as a distinctive odor is added that is often described as a sulfur-like odor, you can also detect is from sights and sounds. You can see warning signs of gas leaks from damaged connections to natural gas appliances, debris being blown into the air, a dry patch of grass in your yard in an otherwise moist area, a fire or explosion near a pipeline, or an exposed pipeline after an earthquake, fire, flood, or other disaster. You can detect gas leaks if you hear unusual sounds, such as hissing, whistling, or roaring near a natural gas line or appliance.
Free Visual Safety Inspection from Mike Diamond
Ensure your home is prepared when an earthquake strikes. With a safety check from Mike Diamond Services, a technician will check over 22 areas throughout your home. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike to protect your home and family, schedule an appointment with Mike Diamond today.
