Turning off the water
Your stopcock shuts off the mains water. Turn it clockwise until it stops, then open a cold tap to confirm the flow dies away. Worth locating and testing today.
Turning off the gas
Next to your gas meter is an emergency control valve with a handle. To shut the gas off, turn the handle a quarter-turn so it sits across (at 90° to) the pipe. Know where yours is before an emergency.
If you smell gas
Turn the gas off at the control valve, open doors and windows, and get everyone out. Don’t switch anything electrical on or off, use a naked flame, or smoke. Then call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 from outside.
Know it in advance
The middle of an emergency is the worst time to be hunting for a valve. Take a minute now to find both controls — and if your stopcock is seized or your gas valve is awkward, we can help.
Want your shut-offs checked, or a seized stopcock replaced before it matters? We’re Gas Safe registered and local to South Manchester and Cheshire, 24/7.
See our emergency plumber service
