Emergency situations can happen at any place and time. This is why it’s imperative to be prepared long before a fire, earthquake, or weather hazard strikes. A crucial part of your planning should involve knowing how to turn your utilities off if circumstances make it necessary for you to do so. The agents at Cundiff & Company Insurance are committed to assisting Somerset, KY, residents minimize the risk of home damage.

Below, the insurance company goes over how to shut off your utilities safely and prevent further harm:

• Electricity: Damaged or malfunctioning wires can cause electrocution and fires. To turn your power off, be aware of where your electrical panel is and whether you have fuses or circuit breakers. If you have fuses, you should see one pullout fuse marked “main.” Remove the smaller fuses first and then the one that says “main.” If you have circuit breakers, you will simply need to flip the main breaker to the off position.
• Water: In a disaster, your water supply can become contaminated and pipes can begin to crack. Water leaks wreak havoc on a home, so to avoid having to file a claim with your insurance company, turn your water off. You must find your water’s main shut-off valve, which is typically on an outside wall near the front of the house. Turn the valve clockwise to shut it off.
• Natural Gas: When natural gas leaks occur, they can result in dangerous fires or explosions. Once you locate your gas meter, you should be able to see the shut-off valve. Using an adjustable wrench, turn the valve until it is in a horizontal position. This is the general procedure, though it can differ depending on the type of gas meter setup you have. If you suspect a leak, get everyone out of the house and call your gas company right away. It’s not advised to attempt turning the gas back on yourself.

In emergency situations, turning off your utilities can make all the difference in your family’s safety how much damage your home sustains. Go over these steps now and then to ensure you remember what to do in the event of a sudden disaster.

Even with preparation, however, incidents can occur. Fortunately, the team at Cundiff & Company Insurance will be by your side. With a homeowners insurance policy and the agency’s 40 years of experience, you can rest assured your house always has protection. Call the insurance company at (606) 679-8379 or visit them online to learn more about their services.