The need to prepare for earthquakes is especially important for
Southern California residents. Being prepared includes having a
plan to protect your family during and after an earthquake. There
are several electric and natural gas precautions that you can take
to be better prepared.
Prepare for an earthquake
If you need assistance locating your gas or electrical facilities,
please contact SDG&E® at 1-800-411-SDGE (7343).
• Know where your electrical circuit box is located and how
to shut off circuits.
• Know where your gas meter is and how to shut off the gas
in an emergency. You should shut off your gas only if you
smell gas. And never turn your gas back on without the
help of SDG&E or a licensed heating contractor or plumber.
• Store a battery-powered radio, a wind-up or battery-powered
clock, a first aid kit, a supply of water and food and a manual
can opener in a place where they can be easily reached.
• Know how to shut off your individual appliances. Place an
emergency phone list that includes the number to report a
gas leak or downed or damaged power line, near the phone.
To alert SDG&E about damaged lines, please call
1-800-611-SDGE (7343).
• Earthquakes can cause improperly secured water heaters to
move or topple. To prevent this, check the wall straps on
your water heater regularly to ensure a secure fit. If your
water heater isn’t already secured to the wall, strap it firmly
to the wall studs in the upper and lower one-third of the
tank with heavy bolts and metal tape. Be sure to place
straps at least 4 inches above the thermostat controls.
Materials can be found at your local hardware store.
What to do during an earthquake
• If you are in the kitchen and it is safe to do so, turn off
cooking appliances at the first sign of shaking.
What to do after an earthquake
• Check gas and electric lines and appliances for damage.
However, do not use electrical switches or candles to check
for damage. For your protection, SDG&E adds a distinctive
odor to natural gas, so leaks are more easily d