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Homeowner guide

How to Shut Off Your Water in an Emergency

When a pipe bursts, the first move isn't a phone call — it's stopping the water. Every California homeowner should know these three shut-off points before an emergency.

1. Fixture stops

Toilets and sinks have small oval valves on the supply lines under or behind them. Turn clockwise to close. This is enough for an overflowing toilet or a leaking faucet line.

2. The house main

Usually where the water line enters the house — garage, crawl space entry, or an exterior wall near the hose bib. Gate valves turn clockwise several rotations; ball valves turn a quarter-turn until the handle is perpendicular to the pipe.

3. The meter box

At the street, in a concrete box in the sidewalk or parkway. The valve inside may need a meter key or adjustable wrench. In many California cities this valve belongs to the utility — use it in a true emergency, and call the utility if it's stuck.

After the water is off

• Open a low faucet to drain pressure.
• If water reached wiring or outlets, switch off the affected breaker.
• For gas water heaters, set the control to “pilot” if the tank is drained or leaking.
• Then call — a licensed plumber can repair the failure and check for hidden damage.

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