Turning Off Water, Electricity, and Gas in an Emergency (May 13, 2001):

Does everyone in your house know how to turn off the water, electricity, and gas? Do you know how? Take time to find your electrical box and know how to turn off the power in an emergency. If a breaker would blow, know how to turn it back on. Why would a breaker blow? Usually it’s because you have too many things on that line or you have something shorting out. If a breaker continues to blow you need to have an electrician check it out and find the cause. This could cause a fire so make sure you get someone who knows what they are doing.

Would you know how to turn off the water if you had a pipe leaking? Find your water meter and know how to turn the water off. The same goes with the gas valve. If you walk in your house and smell gas what should you do? Never turn on anything, not even a light. Get out of the house, go to a neighbor’s, and call the fire department. Stay away and don't let anyone go in the house. One little spark could cause an explosion or fire.

You should take the time to show everyone in your house where and how to turn off all of your utilities and let them know who to call if they smell gas. The same goes with anyone who is house-sitting while you are gone. And it would be a good idea to go through this with your kids at least twice a year.