Utility To-Dos for Your Property After a Major Incident or Disaster

After experiencing a major incident or disaster that affects your home, managing utilities is a critical step to ensure safety and prevent further damage.

This detailed guide will help you navigate the essential utility-related tasks, including turning off utilities, contacting providers, inspecting for damage, and restoring services safely.

Immediate Steps: Turning Off Utilities

1. Electricity

Why: Turning off electricity prevents electrical fires and reduces the risk of electrocution if there are exposed wires or water damage.

How:

Locate the Main Breaker: Find your main electrical panel, usually located in a garage, basement, or utility room.
Turn Off the Main Switch: Flip the main breaker switch to the "off" position.

Note: After a flood, turning off the main breaker prevents potential electrical hazards from water-damaged wiring.

2. Gas

Why: Shutting off the gas prevents leaks and potential explosions if there is damage to gas lines or appliances.

How:

Locate the Gas Meter: Find your gas meter, usually outside your home.
Turn Off the Valve: Use a Wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn until it is perpendicular to the pipe.

3. Water

Why: Turning off the water prevents flooding and water damage if there are broken pipes or leaks.

How:

Locate the Main Shutoff Valve: Find the main water valve, usually located where the water line enters the house.
Turn Off the Valve: Turn the valve clockwise to shut it off.

Example: After a hurricane, turning off the main water valve prevents further water damage from potential pipe bursts.

Contacting Utility Providers

1. Notify Providers

Why: Informing your utility providers about the incident ensures they are aware of potential outages and can assist with inspections and restorations.

How:

Call Customer Service: Contact the customer service departments of your electricity, gas, and water providers.
Explain the Situation: Provide details about the incident and any visible damage.

2. Request Inspections

Why: Professional inspections ensure that utilities are safe to use before they are turned back on.

How:

Schedule Inspections: Arrange for utility providers to inspect your electricity, gas, and water systems.
Follow Recommendations: Adhere to any safety recommendations or required repairs before restoring services.

Inspecting for Damage

1. Electrical System

What to Look For:

Water Damage: Check for water in electrical outlets, switches, and panels.
Exposed Wires: Look for exposed or frayed wiring.
Burn Marks: Inspect for signs of burning or scorching near outlets and wiring.

Steps:

Do Not Touch: Avoid touching electrical components if you suspect water damage or exposed wires.
Professional Inspection: Hire a licensed electrician to inspect and repair any damage.

Example: After a flood, you notice waterlogged outlets and hire an electrician to assess and repair the damage.

2. Gas Lines

What to Look For:

Smell of Gas: Be alert for the smell of gas (rotten egg odor).
Hissing Sounds: Listen for hissing sounds near gas lines and appliances.
Visible Damage: Check for visible damage to gas lines and connections.

Steps:

Ventilate: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area if you smell gas.
Evacuate: Leave the premises immediately if you detect a strong gas odor.
Professional Inspection: Contact your gas provider or a licensed plumber to inspect and repair any leaks.

Example: After an Earthquake, you smell gas and immediately evacuate your home, then contact your gas provider for an emergency inspection.

3. Water Pipes

What to Look For:

Leaks: Check for water leaks around pipes and fixtures.
Burst Pipes: Inspect for signs of burst or cracked pipes.
Water Pressure: Notice any changes in water pressure.

Steps:

Temporary Fixes: Use pipe repair tape or clamps for temporary fixes if safe to do so.
Professional Repair: Hire a licensed plumber to inspect and repair any damaged pipes.

Restoring Services Safely

1. Electricity

Steps:

Professional Approval: Ensure a licensed electrician has inspected and approved the electrical system.
Gradual Restoration: Turn on the main breaker switch and then individual circuit breakers gradually to avoid overloading the system.

2. Gas

Steps:

Professional Approval: Ensure a licensed professional has inspected and approved the gas system.
Check Appliances: Inspect gas appliances for damage before turning them back on.
Turn On the Valve: Use a wrench to turn the gas valve back parallel to the pipe.

3. Water

Steps:

Professional Approval: Ensure a licensed plumber has inspected and approved the water system.
Turn On the Valve: Slowly turn the main water valve back on to avoid pressure surges.
Check for Leaks: Monitor the system for any signs of leaks or pressure changes.

Additional Tips

1. Backup Power

Generators: Consider using a Generator for temporary power. Follow safety guidelines and never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces.

2. Documenting Damage

Photos and Videos: Take photos and videos of all damage before making any repairs. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims.

3. Communication

Insurance Claims: Keep your insurance company updated on all inspections, repairs, and restorations. Provide them with documentation and receipts for any expenses incurred.

Wrap-Up

Managing utilities after a major incident or disaster involves several critical steps to ensure safety and prevent further damage. Turning off utilities, contacting providers, inspecting for damage, and restoring services safely are essential tasks in the recovery process.

By following these guidelines and involving professionals where necessary, you can protect your property and expedite the journey to recovery.