Preparing Your Plumbing for an Earthquake in the Valley

Earthquake preparedness is part of life in the San Fernando Valley, and your plumbing plays a bigger role than most people realize. A few simple steps now can limit damage later.

Check that your water heater is braced

California requires water heaters to be braced against earthquakes. Look for straps near the top and bottom of the tank, anchored to wall studs. A heater that tips can rupture its connections and cause both flooding and a gas leak.

Inspect exterior hose bibs and irrigation

Every outdoor faucet should hold full pressure and show no leaks. A quick check now shows which fittings are already weak.

Know where your shutoffs are

• Main water shutoff, usually near the meter.
• Gas shutoff, which should be closed after a quake only if you smell gas or hear it escaping.
• Water heater shutoff.