Know how to turn off home utility services

It’s easy to take running water, heat and light for granted. Most of us just flip a switch, adjust a thermostat and turn on the tap and expect water to flow.

But during cold weather and when disasters or emergencies happen, knowing how to deal with electric service, natural gas and water cutoff valves can mean the difference between coming back to a home intact and one that could be flooded, burned out or worse.

Take some time and locate the utility shut-offs in your home and make sure you know how to turn them off and the best way to restore service. There’s at least one that you shouldn’t try by yourself.

Here’s how to locate your shut-offs and do the right thing.