Earthquake Information… Gas Shut Off

Gas Service Shutoff Valves

Manually turning off the gas service shutoff valve is the most common method to stop the flow of gas serving a building, or part of a building, in case of an emergency. Gas service shutoff valves are installed by PG&E at all gas meter locations or outside locations if the meter is not accessible from the outside.

Keep a 12 to 15-inch adjustable pipe wrench or Crescent-type wrench available to close the valve in case of an emergency. Earthquake wrenches with fixed openings may not fit a particular valve, so an adjustable type is best. To minimize the possibility of unauthorized operation of the valve, wrenches should be located nearby, but not at the gas meter location.

Shut off the gas service shutoff valve only if you smell gas, hear gas escaping, see a broken gas line, or if you suspect a gas leak.

To shut off the gas, rotate the valve a quarter turn in either direction; the valve is closed when the tang (the part you put the wrench on) is crosswise to the pipe.

In addition, most gas appliances have a gas shutoff valve located near the appliance that lets you turn off the gas to that appliance only. Know which of your appliances use gas, and where the appliance gas shutoff valves are located. In some cases, turning off the gas at the appliances shutoff valve will suffice.

Check out this You Tube video

 

Earthquake Update

 

Important earthquake safety information:

Did you know you can have an earthquake actuated gas shutoff device installed? Some cities and counties require these already and more are expected to do so.

The State of California is required to approve all earthquake actuated gas shutoff valves used in the State of California. A list of approved valves is available on the DSA Gas Shut-off Valves Certification Program webpage:
http://www.dgs.ca.gov/dsa/Programs/programCert/gasshutoff.aspx
If you are not the do it yourself type, check out a recommended vendor:http://www.homesafety1st.com/

Little Known Facts About California Auto Insurance

Auto Insurance

You buy California auto insurance to protect yourself when you have an accident or claim.  When something bad happens you want your auto insurance company to respond. When it comes to auto insurance, knowledge is power. Here are some facts to help educate you about auto insurance. At North Bay Insurance Brokers, Inc., we combine premium Auto Insurance with personalized service to give you the best coverage possible

Auto Insurance Facts

1. Your personal items are not covered if damaged or stolen out of your auto.
2. The kind of vehicle you own helps determine your auto insurance premiums. Some vehicles are less expensive to insure. Call us today to find out more information.
3. As your independent agent we will help you manage your policy, and more importantly guide you through any claim you might have.
4. It is very important to review your auto insurance policy to make sure all the information is correct. Vehicle age, garage location and even VIN number can affect premiums.
5. If your car is stolen your liability coverage will still apply.
6. When you allow your uncle to use your car and he gets into an accident, your insurance will apply. You will be responsible for deductibles on your policy.
7. Auto liability insurance is required in every state.
8. If you add expensive after-market products (alarm, TV, stereo, custom interior) let us know so we can make sure you have the proper auto insurance coverage.
9. Many classic cars need special auto coverage, call us today.
10. If you own an ATV, motorcycle or boat, combining these with your auto insurance can save you money.

Our agency has a long history of proudly serving your area as an Independent Insurance Agency and representing some of the best insurance companies in the business. North Bay Insurance Brokers Inc. focuses on delivering quality insurance products with a personalized, hands-on experience that sets us apart in today’s market.