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How to Secure Your Gas Lines Before and After an Earthquake

Earthquakes are unpredictable and potentially devastating, especially when it comes to building infrastructure. One of the most dangerous risks? Natural gas leaks. A ruptured gas line can trigger fires, explosions, and complete structural loss—turning an already dire situation into a catastrophe.


At RiskAssured, we help property owners, businesses, and facility managers prepare for seismic events with expert risk mitigation strategies. In this post, we cover how to secure your gas lines before and after an earthquake—to protect lives, reduce liability, and safeguard property.


Why Gas Lines Are So Vulnerable During Earthquakes

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. experiences over 20,000 earthquakes annually, with more than 700 capable of causing real damage. During seismic events, gas lines can easily shift or rupture, creating an invisible yet deadly threat.

Common post-earthquake gas hazards include:

  • Leaks near water heaters or furnaces

  • Sparks triggering explosions

  • Combustible materials igniting

  • Delays in emergency response due to infrastructure damage


Before the Earthquake: Gas Safety Preparation Checklist

You can’t prevent an earthquake—but you can reduce the risk of gas-related disasters with proper planning. Follow these safety guidelines to prepare your facility or home:

Know Your System

  • Identify your gas meter and manual shutoff valve

  • Keep a wrench nearby to manually shut off the gas in an emergency

  • Train employees or family members on how to shut it off safely

Install Seismic Shutoff Devices

  • Install automatic gas shutoff valves (recommended in seismic zones)

  • Use flexible gas piping to reduce the chance of rupture during shaking

Secure Appliances & Connections

  • Use flexible connectors for water heaters, dryers, and furnaces

  • Strap or anchor tall furniture and water heaters to prevent toppling

  • Keep 36 inches of clearance around gas appliances (unless otherwise noted by manufacturer)

Store Safely

  • Keep flammable liquids and materials far from any gas-powered equipment

  • Never store paint, gasoline, or solvents near utility rooms or appliances

Check Codes

  • Review local seismic safety regulations with your Building Department

  • Ensure compliance with current bracing and gas safety standards


After the Earthquake: Gas Safety Protocol

Once the ground stops shaking, you may only have minutes to act. Knowing what to do can save lives.

Immediate Steps to Take:

  1. Check for Gas Leaks

    • If you smell gas or hear hissing, it’s likely a leak.

    • Do not use lighters, electrical switches, or electronics—these can ignite a spark.

  2. Shut Off the Gas

    • Manually shut off the gas at the main valve.

    • Evacuate the building immediately.

  3. Call for Help

    • Use a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone to call the gas company and fire department from a safe distance.

  4. Stay Away

    • Do not re-enter the building until authorities declare it safe.

    • Never turn gas back on yourself—only qualified technicians should restore service.

  5. Inspect Nearby Hazards

    • Make sure no flammable liquids or toppled appliances are near gas lines.


Bonus Tip: Earthquake Response Training for Businesses

If you manage a commercial property or employ staff, be sure to:

  • Incorporate earthquake response and gas safety into your emergency preparedness plan

  • Conduct regular evacuation and gas shutoff drills

  • Assign emergency roles and keep safety tools in designated locations


Stay Earthquake-Ready with RiskAssured

Securing your gas lines before and after an earthquake can prevent fires, injuries, and costly damages. A few proactive measures today could protect your entire property tomorrow.

Need help assessing your earthquake risk or creating a disaster preparedness plan?

Contact RiskAssured for customized facility risk assessments, seismic safety audits, and business continuity planning.


 
 
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