Gas shutoff valve
The valve at your gas meter that stops all natural gas to the house — turned only in an emergency.
Most homes have a main gas shutoff valve on the inlet pipe at the gas meter (often outside). The valve is closed by turning the rectangular nub a quarter turn with a wrench until it sits crosswise to the pipe. You only ever close it in a genuine emergency — a strong gas smell, a fire, or after a major earthquake — and only on your way out of the building. The critical rule: once the gas is off, never turn it back on yourself. Only the gas utility or a qualified professional can safely relight pilots and restore service. Some appliances also have their own individual shutoff valve on the supply line behind them. Learn the steps in [how to shut off your utilities in an emergency](/guides/how-to-shut-off-utilities-in-an-emergency) and what to do the moment you [smell gas](/guides/gas-smell-what-to-do).